What is the Giuffre–Prince Andrew settlement?

In February 2022, Virginia Giuffre and Prince Andrew (Duke of York) reached a settlement in the civil lawsuit Giuffre had filed in a New York federal court alleging that Andrew had sexually abused her when she was 17 years old.

The Lawsuit: Giuffre filed her lawsuit in the Southern District of New York in August 2021, just days before the statute of limitations was extended under a New York law for childhood sexual abuse victims. The lawsuit alleged Andrew had engaged in sexual activity with her on three occasions — at Maxwell’s London townhouse, Epstein’s New York mansion, and on Little Saint James island — when she was 17.

Andrew’s Defense: Andrew denied the allegations and initially argued the settlement Giuffre had reached with Epstein’s estate in 2009 released him from all potential liability. U.S. District Judge Lewis Kaplan rejected that argument in January 2022, allowing the case to proceed.

The Settlement Terms: The parties reached a settlement on February 15, 2022. Under the terms:

• Andrew agreed to make a “substantial donation” to Giuffre’s charity supporting victims of trafficking and abuse
• The amount was widely reported to be approximately £12 million ($15–17 million)
• Andrew expressed “regret” for his association with Epstein and stated support for Giuffre’s “bravery”
• No admission of wrongdoing was made by Andrew

Andrew’s Status: Following the settlement, King Charles stripped Prince Andrew of his royal military titles and patronages. Andrew resigned from public royal duties. He retained his title as Duke of York.

Giuffre’s Statement: Giuffre said the settlement would allow her to move forward without the burden of ongoing litigation, and that she hoped the outcome would bring some measure of justice for herself and other survivors.