Norfolk, England – Former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on on suspicion of misconduct in public office, following revelations stemming from the latest release of files related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday, and comes approximately two weeks after an anti-royal organization called for a police investigation into allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government information with the late American financier while serving as a British trade envoy.
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk, stating that searches were being conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. While the police initially did not name the individual, it was quickly confirmed to be Mountbatten-Windsor. He was held for much of the day before being released under investigation, meaning he is free to go without restrictions while the inquiry continues. Police have concluded searches at his Norfolk residence, Wood Farm, but the search at Royal Lodge, his former residence on the Windsor estate, remains ongoing.
The arrest marks a significant escalation in the scrutiny surrounding Mountbatten-Windsor’s long-standing association with Epstein. The allegations center on claims that he divulged sensitive information during his time as a special representative for UK trade and investment. The U.S. Justice Department’s recent release of Epstein files prompted the Thames Valley Police to assess the claims and ultimately launch a formal investigation.
The unfolding situation is creating a clear divergence in how the current monarch, King Charles III, is handling the matter compared to the late Queen Elizabeth II. Sources indicate that King Charles is not expected to intervene to protect his brother, a marked contrast to the Queen’s steadfast support for Mountbatten-Windsor throughout the initial wave of allegations. This shift in approach underscores a potential desire within the monarchy to distance itself from the scandal and demonstrate a commitment to accountability.
The arrest has reignited calls for Mountbatten-Windsor to be removed from the line of succession. A YouGov poll revealed that , 82 percent of Britons believe he should be stripped of his claim to the throne. Several politicians, including Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey, have echoed this sentiment. Prime Minister Keir Starmer is reportedly considering plans for an Act of Parliament to facilitate his removal, a move that would require the agreement of other countries that share the UK monarch.
Buckingham Palace has stated that the issue of succession is “a matter for Parliament,” signaling a willingness to allow the legislative process to unfold without direct royal interference. Defence minister Luke Pollard emphasized that “British values” support preventing Mountbatten-Windsor from ever becoming king, adding that the government has been collaborating with Buckingham Palace on plans to achieve this outcome.
Mountbatten-Windsor’s current residence is Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, a property owned by King Charles. He previously resided at Royal Lodge, a residence on the Windsor estate. The simultaneous searches at both locations highlight the breadth of the investigation and the authorities’ determination to gather all relevant evidence.
The controversy surrounding Mountbatten-Windsor dates back years, with initial scrutiny arising from his friendship with Epstein in . Concerns were raised about the potential for conflicts of interest during his tenure as a trade envoy. The situation intensified following allegations of sexual assault, which Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied. A highly critical interview with Emily Maitlis on the BBC’s Newsnight program in further damaged his reputation and led to his withdrawal from public duties in .
In , Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his honours, styles, and royal titles, including his dukedom. This latest development – his arrest – represents a further and potentially decisive step in severing ties between the monarchy and a figure whose associations have become a significant liability. The arrest and subsequent investigation are likely to have far-reaching implications for the future of the British monarchy and its relationship with the public.
The case also raises questions about the handling of sensitive information by members of the royal family and the potential for undue influence by individuals with questionable backgrounds. As the investigation progresses, further details are expected to emerge, potentially shedding light on the full extent of Mountbatten-Windsor’s interactions with Epstein and the nature of any confidential information that may have been shared.
