GREGORY KATZ
Associated Press
LONDON (AP) — Following days of turmoil that have damaged the British royal family's reputation, Prince Andrew announced Wednesday that he will step back from public duties because of his association with a notorious American sex offender.
The second son of Queen Elizabeth II said in a statement that his ties to Jeffrey Epstein had become a "major disruption" to the royal family's charitable work. It was unclear whether the change was a temporary or permanent shift in his role.
Andrew said he had obtained the queen's permission to step away. He also said he was willing to help any law enforcement agency with an investigation.
The scandal has rocked the royal family, particularly since a television interview on Saturday failed to ease the many questions
