Western Australia Police Commissioner Col Blanch has confirmed an internal review of all officer interactions with Virginia Giuffre prior to her death. The review, prompted by a letter from Giuffre’s family, will examine whether police followed proper procedures during her time living in the state.
Ms. Giuffre died by suicide in April last year at a semi-rural property north of Perth. She had long alleged that Jeffrey Epstein trafficked her for sex to prominent figures, including former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, during her teenage years.
Why is the Western Australia Police conducting this review?
Commissioner Blanch told a Western Australia parliament hearing on Wednesday morning that the family violence investigation team will review the circumstances of all police attendance during Giuffre’s time in the state. He stated the review is specifically confined to how officers interacted with Ms. Giuffre.
Speaking outside parliament, Blanch said the department intends to ensure all duties were performed correctly. He noted that the review may utilize body-worn video and the department’s extensive officer training to ensure a thorough process.
What are the demands from the Giuffre family?
Giuffre’s brother, Sky Roberts, and sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, have renewed calls for a coronial inquiry into the circumstances leading to her death. They have written to the state coroner requesting an investigation into what they describe as “systematic failures” in Australia, the United States, and the UK.
More than a dozen researchers and practitioners from universities across the country have also written to the coroner to support the family’s plea. The Roberts family believes that the documentation related to Giuffre’s case could be utilized to help save other women and children.
What could happen next?
The state’s coroner and ombudsman could launch their own independent investigations into the matter. The internal police review, which commenced shortly after the family’s correspondence was received, may provide the documentation necessary for such inquiries.
Additionally, Giuffre’s brothers are calling for the release of Epstein files, which they believe include videotapes. These files could potentially offer further clarity regarding the circumstances surrounding her life and death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Western Australia police review?
The review was initiated in response to a letter sent to Commissioner Col Blanch by Virginia Giuffre’s family.
What did Virginia Giuffre allege regarding her past?
She alleged she was trafficked for sex by Jeffrey Epstein to prominent figures, including former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, when she was a teenager.
Who is supporting the family’s request for a coronial inquiry?
More than a dozen researchers and practitioners in the domestic violence space from various universities have written to the coroner in support of the plea.
Do you believe internal police reviews are a sufficient way to address allegations of systematic failure?