Sarah Ferguson Could Be Questioned by Police After Prince Andrew's Arrest
Sarah Ferguson, the former wife of Prince Andrew, may be questioned by police as a potential witness following his recent arrest, according to senior British legal sources. The development comes as part of the investigation into Andrew's alleged misconduct in public office.
Potential Witness Status for Ferguson
A senior barrister told Page Six that while there is no suggestion of criminal wrongdoing on Ferguson's part, investigators may consider her a relevant witness in the case. "The police may have a basis for questioning Sarah Ferguson [as] she may be a relevant witness in this case," the source explained. "They may want to ask her some questions. While Sarah Ferguson would not have been in a public office at that time, I don't know what she knows, and if she has disclosed anything (in emails consistent with her role as an ex-royal and Andrew's ex-wife)."
The source emphasized that decisions about whether to question Ferguson would rest entirely with police investigators. "It's up to police," the barrister stated, noting that "as part of this investigation, they can call upon who they want."
Ferguson's Current Whereabouts and History
Ferguson, 66, is currently believed to be in the United Arab Emirates after reportedly leaving her former home at Royal Lodge. She was believed to be abroad at the time of Andrew's arrest, having reportedly spent time in the French Alps before travelling to the UAE.
Ferguson and Andrew, who divorced in 1996, share two daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie. Despite their separation, Ferguson has consistently defended Andrew publicly, including after he stepped back from royal duties and lost the use of his HRH title.
Previous Connections to Jeffrey Epstein
Previously released emails linked to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein appeared to show Ferguson requesting financial assistance. According to documents reported in the so-called Epstein Files:
- She allegedly wrote to Epstein in January 2010, "Just marry me," following his release from jail
- In a May 2010 email, she reportedly asked to work as his "House Assistant," stating she "desperately" needed money and describing herself as "very traumatized and alone"
- It was also reported that in 2009 she requested £20,000 for rent amid concerns a landlord might go to the press
Prince Andrew's Arrest Details
Prince Andrew was arrested early Thursday by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday, with police officers arriving at his temporary residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk to make the arrest.
The arrest is reportedly in connection with allegations that he forwarded confidential trade documents to Jeffrey Epstein. If convicted of misconduct in public office, Andrew could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
A representative for Ferguson declined to comment on Andrew's arrest when contacted by media outlets.
