Prince Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office
- Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles, was arrested early this morning and is in custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
- Thames Valley Police issued the following statement:
Former prince Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office over ties to Epstein
“As part of the investigation, we have today arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.
“The man remains in police custody at this time.
“We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
Prince William has been campaigning to oust the former Prince Andrew from the royal fold for years
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
- The King’s brother was arrested at 8:00 am (4 am Trinidad time) at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.
- King Charles said in a statement that he “learned with the deepest concern” of Andrew’s arrest, adding “the law must take its course”.
- The King was not informed in advance of the arrest.
- Police are searching addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, including the Royal Lodge in Windsor where the former prince lived until two weeks ago.
- It comes after Thames Valley Police said they were assessing a complaint over the alleged sharing of confidential material by the former prince with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, while he was Trade Envoy.
- Andrew, who turned 66 today, has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein.
