Virginia Giuffre family on Andrew’s arrest: ‘Broken hearts have been lifted’
The Hill
by Sophie BramsFebruary 19, 2026
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The family of Virginia Giuffre, who accused Prince Andrew (then known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor) of sexually abusing her after she was trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein, shared their relief and joy following his arrest. In a statement, they expressed that "broken hearts have been lifted" at the news of his apprehension, signaling a long-awaited sense of justice and hope for accountability. The family's reaction highlights the emotional toll of years of seeking justice and the significance of this legal milestone.
Virginia Giuffre has been a central figure in the case against Epstein and Andrew, with her allegations playing a key role in both trials. Epstein, a notorious trafficker and financier, died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial. However, his death did not end the fight for justice for his victims, including Giuffre. Her accusations against Andrew gained significant attention, leading to his civil case being settled out of court in 2015. Despite this, many believed Andrew had escaped accountability due to his royal connections.
The arrest of Prince Andrew, now styled as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his loss of title and privileges, marks a turning point for victims of sexual abuse and trafficking. It underscores the growing movement toward holding powerful individuals accountable, regardless of their status. This case is not just about Andrew or Epstein; it's about
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026