Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie will not attend the traditional Easter Sunday church service alongside their royal family members, a decision aligned with King Charles III. This move follows the recent arrest of their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Arrest Casts Shadow Over Family
Last month, Andrew was taken into police custody and subsequently released under investigation. Authorities suspect he shared sensitive information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as the UK’s trade envoy. Andrew has consistently denied any involvement or wrongdoing related to Epstein.
Beatrice and Eugenie Named in Epstein Documents
The princesses’ names surfaced in millions of Epstein-related documents released by the US Department of Justice. These records include email correspondence between Epstein and their mother, Sarah Ferguson. It is important to note that appearing in these files does not imply any misconduct.
One notable email suggests that shortly after Epstein’s 2009 release from prison for child sex crimes, Ferguson took Beatrice and Eugenie—then aged 19 and 20—to meet Epstein in the United States. This revelation has intensified scrutiny on the family.
Royal Family Easter Plans Proceed Without Beatrice and Eugenie
While Beatrice and Eugenie have arranged alternative plans for Easter Sunday, the King, Queen Camilla, and other senior royals, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, will attend the Easter Matins service at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Sources confirm that Beatrice and Eugenie are expected to participate in future royal events.
Impact on Titles and Residence
Following the Epstein revelations, Sarah Ferguson has lost several honorary titles, including the Freedom of the City of York. However, Beatrice and Eugenie retain their princess titles.
Since early February, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been residing at Sandringham after moving out of Royal Lodge, Windsor.
