Former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, Thames Valley Police confirmed. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, stems from an investigation into whether he shared confidential government information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Police conducted searches at two addresses in England – Wood Farm, Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, and Royal Lodge, his former residence on the Windsor estate near London. Six unmarked police vehicles were observed arriving at Wood Farm early Thursday morning, according to Reuters. The searches in Norfolk have since concluded.
The investigation was prompted by the release of documents connected to a U.S. Investigation of Epstein, which raised questions about the sharing of trade reports. Thames Valley Police stated they were “assessing” reports regarding the alleged transmission of these reports in early February, prior to Thursday’s arrest.
Mountbatten-Windsor was held for several hours before being released under investigation, meaning he is free to go without restrictions whereas the inquiry continues. The police statement did not name the individual arrested, but King Charles III subsequently confirmed it was his brother.
The allegations being investigated are separate from those previously made by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was trafficked to Britain by Epstein and sexually abused by Mountbatten-Windsor. Giuffre died by suicide last year. However, relatives of Giuffre welcomed the arrest, according to reports.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with his friendship with Epstein. His links to the late financier have been a source of controversy for the royal family for over a decade, ultimately leading to his removal from royal duties.
King Charles III, who was attending London Fashion Week on Thursday, issued a statement affirming his support for the investigation, stating, “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
