The correspondence suggests that Epstein and his associate David Stern suspected a former royal aide, Johnny O’Sullivan, of sharing information with journalists. The emails indicate they believed he may have been the source of several damaging media stories.
One of the most significant outcomes of the period was the publication in February 2011 of a widely circulated photograph showing Andrew with his arm around Giuffre when she was 17. The image was published by the Mail on Sunday.
Andrew has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing and has previously stated that he has no recollection of meeting Giuffre.
Emails Refer to Efforts to Trace Media Sources
In emails dated February 2015, shortly after Giuffre filed civil court papers in Florida alleging that Epstein trafficked her to Andrew, Stern wrote to Epstein suggesting that internal correspondence pointed towards O’Sullivan.
Epstein responded by instructing Stern to locate O’Sullivan. The documents indicate they were attempting to link him to press enquiries and earlier stories, including coverage published in late 2010.
Among the articles referenced was reporting by the News of the World featuring a photograph of Andrew and Epstein walking in New York’s Central Park in 2010. The image, taken by photographer Jae Donnelly, attracted international attention and intensified scrutiny of Andrew’s association with Epstein.
Financial Settlement and Back Pay
The emails also reference a financial settlement connected to unpaid wages owed to O’Sullivan following his bankruptcy. Epstein reportedly paid tens of thousands of pounds to settle the matter in 2011.
Correspondence suggests concerns within Andrew’s circle that O’Sullivan might disclose information to the media if his financial claims were not resolved.
There is no suggestion in the documents that O’Sullivan committed any wrongdoing, nor that he was responsible for the publication of any specific stories.
Previous Allegations and Public Scrutiny
The newly released material forms part of broader documents known as the Epstein files.
Earlier disclosures have included claims that Andrew provided Giuffre’s personal details to his protection officer for investigation. Andrew has denied the allegations and maintains that he acted on concerns about claims made against him.
In addition, questions have previously been raised regarding Andrew’s associations with Epstein following Epstein’s conviction in the United States for soliciting a minor.
Following renewed scrutiny, the UK government has confirmed that the Ministry of Defence has launched a review into whether Royal Air Force bases were used in connection with Epstein’s activities. A Ministry source stated that officials would pursue any relevant information.
Ongoing Legal and Public Interest Context
Andrew continues to deny all allegations related to Giuffre and has previously settled a civil case without admission of liability.
The latest documents add further detail to longstanding questions surrounding communications between Epstein, his associates and individuals connected to the royal household during the relevant period.
