Melbourne: Virginia Giuffre, the woman who accused UK's Prince Andrew and other influential men of sexually exploiting her as a teenager trafficked by financier Jeffrey Epstein, died by suicide at the age of 41 in Neergabby, Australia. The news of the death was confirmed by her family on Friday.
Giuffre was a citizen of the United States and Australia. "Deeply loving, wise and funny, she was a beacon to other survivors and victims," publicist Dini von Mueffling said in a statement.
"She adored her children and many animals. She was always more concerned with me than with herself. I will miss her beyond words. It was the privilege of a lifetime to represent her." Giuffre's publicist added.
She raised a strong voice against sexual abuse and trafficking and spoke against Epstein. Giuffre helped other victims by giving them the courage to come forward and narrate their ordeal.
Virginia Giuffre | X/@EdKrassen
She reportedly played a key role in the conviction of Ghislaine Maxwell, an associate of Epstein.
Giuffre reportedly came in contact with Maxwell when she was a teenager. She was allegedly sexually abused by Epstein for almost three years between 1999 to 2002. Notably, it was alleged that Epstein trafficked her to several powerful men, including Prince Andrew.
Epstein died by suicide in 2019 amid the ongoing trial. She also sued Prince Andrew in 2021, alleging that she was sexually abused by him when she was 17. However, Prince Andrew denied the allegations. The case was settled in 2022.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help here: | Mental Health Helplines |
