Former Prince Andrew Arrested in UK Over Epstein Ties
– Former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested today on suspicion of misconduct in public office, Thames Valley Police confirmed. The arrest comes following a police investigation into recently released files related to Jeffrey Epstein.
King Charles III responded to the news with “deepest concern,” issuing a statement through Buckingham Palace. “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,” the King stated. He affirmed the royal family’s “full and wholehearted support and co-operation” and emphasized that “the law must take its course.” He added that he would refrain from further comment while the process unfolds, but that his family would continue to fulfill their duties.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who turned 66 today, was detained at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Police are currently conducting searches at properties linked to him, including the Royal Lodge residence.
The arrest centers on allegations of misconduct in public office, a charge that carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, according to the Crown Prosecution Service. The investigation is focused on whether Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
The arrest follows the release of a new set of documents as part of the so-called Epstein files by the US Department of Justice. Police have been assessing reports that the former Prince sent trade reports to Epstein in 2010.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with his relationship with Epstein. He had recently moved to the Sandringham estate in Norfolk on the orders of King Charles III.
He is the first senior royal in modern history to be arrested, according to reports. Police officers arrived at the Sandringham Estate earlier Thursday morning and took him into custody. He remains in police custody as of this afternoon.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of the Thames Valley Police stated that the investigation was launched following a “thorough assessment.” He added that officers are “carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.”
