Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the Duke of York, was released Thursday evening following hours of questioning by Thames Valley Police, but remains under investigation for suspected misconduct in public office. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, stems from claims that he shared confidential government information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to police statements and reports from multiple news outlets.
Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk, though they did not initially name him, stating the action was “as part of the investigation” into allegations arising from the recent release of Epstein files by the U.S. Justice Department. Six unmarked police vehicles were observed arriving at Wood Farm, Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence on the Sandringham estate, early Thursday morning. Searches were also conducted at Royal Lodge, his former residence near Windsor, according to Reuters.
The investigation centers on whether Mountbatten-Windsor, during his time as a British trade envoy, misused his position to disclose confidential information. The anti-royal organization, whose name has not been widely reported, had previously called for a police investigation following the release of the Epstein files.
Thames Valley Police stated that the individual arrested had been “released under investigation,” meaning he is free to go without restrictions while inquiries continue. The searches in Norfolk have concluded, police added.
The arrest comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Mountbatten-Windsor’s association with Epstein. The allegations of misconduct in public office carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, according to The New York Times. King Charles III has not publicly commented on the arrest beyond allowing the investigation to proceed, with sources indicating his position is that “the law must take its course.”
The U.S. Justice Department’s release of the Epstein files prompted the Thames Valley Police to assess the claims against Mountbatten-Windsor just over a week prior to the arrest. The police force confirmed they were determining whether a formal investigation was warranted based on the newly released documents.
