Former royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation Thursday evening after spending approximately 11 hours in police custody, following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest, which occurred shortly after 8 a.m. At Wood Farm in Sandringham, Norfolk, marks a significant escalation in scrutiny surrounding the former prince’s activities following the release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case.
Police descended on his residence, initiating a process that included a drive to an unspecified location for questioning and subsequent detention at the Aylsham Police Investigation Centre. Upon arrival at the station, Mountbatten-Windsor would have been informed of the reason for his arrest and read his rights, including the right to legal counsel and to have a next-of-kin notified, according to retired Metropolitan Police sergeant Graham Wettone.
The Aylsham Police Investigation Centre, built in 2011, is equipped with specialized interview rooms and a suite of custody cells. Wettone, author of How To Be A Police Officer, described the likely conditions Mountbatten-Windsor encountered, stating that custody cells are typically “no bigger than a box-room in a three-bed semi” and offer no preferential treatment. He emphasized that detainees receive standard meals and are subject to the same protocols, including the confiscation of belts, ties, and shoelaces for safety reasons.
A 2017 video filmed at the Aylsham station, originally intended to demonstrate the processing of drink driving suspects, provides insight into the standard procedures. The footage shows a police vehicle entering the station through a security gate, followed by the suspect being processed at the front desk and then placed in a sparsely furnished cell containing only a bed with a thin mattress and a toilet. Wettone noted the cells are bare, with limited reading material available.
During processing, Mountbatten-Windsor would have undergone a medical and welfare assessment, with officers inquiring about any medications, physical ailments, or mental health concerns. While a thorough search would have been conducted, a strip search was deemed unlikely given the nature of the alleged offense.
King Charles issued a statement expressing “deepest concern” over his brother’s arrest and affirmed the authorities would have his “full and wholehearted support and co-operation.” He stated, “the law must take its course,” adding that he would refrain from further comment while the investigation proceeds. The Prince and Princess of Wales too support the King’s statement.
The arrest follows scrutiny over reports revealed in the Epstein files, which allege that Mountbatten-Windsor sent trade information to Epstein in 2010 while serving as Britain’s special envoy for international trade. He stepped down from that role in 2011 following criticism of his association with Epstein. Police have not disclosed the specific details that prompted the arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a common law offense in England carrying a potential life sentence.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Police searches at his former home, Royal Lodge, continued Friday, according to reports. The investigation remains ongoing, with no immediate indication of further action.
