Former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, British authorities confirmed Thursday, . The arrest, carried out by Thames Valley Police, marks a significant escalation in scrutiny surrounding the Duke of York’s connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
While police have not officially named the individual arrested, citing standard UK legal practice, they confirmed a man in his 60s from Norfolk was taken into custody. A statement released by the Thames Valley Police detailed searches were being conducted at addresses in both Berkshire and Norfolk. “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” said Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright. “It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.”
The investigation stems from recently uncovered emails suggesting Mountbatten-Windsor, while serving as Britain’s trade envoy, shared confidential reports with Epstein in . News organizations reported on these findings earlier this month, prompting the police inquiry. The nature of the trade reports and the extent of information shared remain under investigation.
The timing of the arrest comes after King Charles III publicly stated his willingness to “support” the police investigation into the allegations. This represents a notable shift, given the long-standing efforts to distance the monarchy from the Epstein scandal. Buckingham Palace has, as of now, offered no immediate comment on the arrest itself.
Mountbatten-Windsor’s association with Epstein has been a source of considerable controversy for years. He was previously stripped of his military affiliations and royal patronages in following accusations of sexual assault, allegations he has consistently denied. Last year, King Charles further removed him from his official duties and requested he vacate the Royal Lodge, effectively sidelining him from public life.
The arrest centers on the concept of “misconduct in public office,” a legal term that broadly covers actions by public officials that breach the trust placed in them. In this case, the allegation appears to be that Mountbatten-Windsor abused his position as a trade envoy to provide information to Epstein, potentially compromising national interests or security. The specifics of how this constitutes misconduct will be central to the prosecution’s case, should charges be filed.
The investigation is particularly sensitive given the ongoing public interest in the Epstein case and the numerous allegations of sexual abuse against him. Virginia Giuffre, a prominent accuser of Epstein, and her family have publicly stated their belief that Mountbatten-Windsor “was never a prince,” a pointed remark highlighting the damage to his reputation and standing within the royal family.
The arrest took place at Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence, Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. Images circulated showing unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers at the property, signaling the seriousness of the operation. The former prince remains in police custody at an undisclosed location.
The Thames Valley Police have urged caution regarding public reporting on the case, emphasizing the need to avoid potentially prejudicing the investigation or being in contempt of court. “We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time,” Wright stated.
This development marks a new chapter in the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal, and its implications for the British monarchy remain to be seen. The investigation is ongoing, and Mountbatten-Windsor has not been charged with any offense. However, the arrest itself represents a significant moment, raising serious questions about his past conduct and the extent of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
