Former Prince Andrew Released Under Investigation Following Arrest
– Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been released from police custody following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The release occurred after approximately eleven hours of questioning, according to reports.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that Mountbatten-Windsor was released “under investigation,” meaning he is not currently facing charges but remains a person of interest in the ongoing inquiry. Searches of properties in Norfolk have concluded, but will continue in Berkshire, police stated.
The arrest, which took place on Thursday, is reportedly linked to activity during Mountbatten-Windsor’s time as a British trade envoy and follows the release of documents related to the investigation into Jeffrey Epstein by the US Justice Department. The specific nature of the allegations remains undisclosed, but centers around potential misconduct in his former public role.
King Charles III responded to the news with “deepest concern,” stating that “the law must take its course.” He emphasized the royal family’s full cooperation with the authorities. “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities,” King Charles said.
Mountbatten-Windsor has previously denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. He has not yet publicly commented on the specific allegations related to the recently released files.
The arrest prompted a reaction from US President Donald Trump, who described the situation as “very sad.” A Democratic congressman reportedly indicated that developments were being closely monitored in the United States.
Photographs taken after his release show Mountbatten-Windsor leaving Aylsham police station and returning to Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. He was seen in the backseat of a vehicle.
The investigation stems from a “thorough assessment” conducted by Thames Valley Police, as per standard UK legal procedure, the force did not initially name the individual arrested, referring only to a man in his sixties. Mountbatten-Windsor is 66 years old.
This development marks a renewed focus on Mountbatten-Windsor’s associations with Epstein, which have been subject to intense scrutiny in recent years. The release of further documents from the US Justice Department appears to have triggered the latest police action.
