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The family of Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to have sexual encounters with former Prince Andrew, welcomed Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest in the U.K., but condemned the lack of similar accountability in the United States.

Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, connected to documents from the Epstein files indicating he shared confidential government information with Epstein while serving as a British trade envoy. He was released after approximately 12 hours but remains under investigation. The charges, although not directly tied to Giuffre’s sexual abuse claims, carry potential life sentences under U.K. law, underscoring the seriousness of the allegations.

Sky Roberts, Giuffre’s brother, described the arrest as an emotional moment. “It felt surreal,” he told CBS News, recalling the mix of joy and sorrow that followed the news. He said he wished Giuffre, who died by suicide last year at age 41, could have witnessed the development. Giuffre had accused Mountbatten-Windsor of assault on three occasions when she was 17, allegations he has denied. In 2022, the former prince reached a $16 million settlement with her.

Amanda Roberts, Sky’s wife and Giuffre’s sister-in-law, said the arrest offered some vindication for Giuffre and other survivors. “This is a day that survivors have long awaited,” she said. “It shows that accountability is possible, and it validates the courage of those who have spoken out.” She emphasized that while the charges do not relate directly to the abuse claims, they represent a critical step in uncovering wrongdoing and holding powerful figures accountable.

The family expressed frustration with the U.S. government’s inaction. Sky Roberts criticized American authorities for failing to pursue similar investigations, calling the response “shameful.” He pointed to past administrations as equally negligent, highlighting the broader systemic failures in addressing Epstein-related crimes and protecting survivors.

Mountbatten-Windsor, stripped of his royal titles last year amid renewed scrutiny over his association with Epstein and Giuffre’s allegations, remains under investigation in the U.K. The family stressed that continued pressure and thorough investigations are essential. Amanda Roberts said, “We hope the U.K. remains persistent, and we expect the same level of diligence in the U.S. It is critical that all implicated parties face consequences.”

The arrest has reignited calls for U.S. authorities to take stronger action. Sky Roberts urged lawmakers and the Justice Department to pursue justice for survivors and to hold any officials who fail to act accountable. “The American public, along with survivors, is demanding action,” he said. “This is a stain on history if justice is not pursued here as well.”

The family also used the moment to encourage other survivors of sexual abuse. Amanda Roberts said, “Ordinary people like Virginia can achieve extraordinary outcomes, no matter the trauma and pain endured. This is a reminder that speaking out matters, and that persistence can lead to justice.”

The case illustrates ongoing global scrutiny of Epstein’s network and reinforces the need for accountability across international jurisdictions. While Giuffre’s family celebrates the U.K. arrest, they maintain that the work is far from over and are calling for continued investigation into those connected to Epstein’s crimes.