Former Prince Andrew Released After Detention
Police have released King Charles III’s brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, after he was detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office on Thursday (19 February).
At 19:00 GMT (Friday, 02:00 Western Indonesian Time), Andrew was photographed leaving Aylsham police station, approximately 60 kilometres from the former prince’s residence in Sandringham.
Thames Valley Police released a statement: “The man who was detained has now been released under investigation.”
In addition to detaining Andrew, police had previously carried out a search of his residence in the Sandringham area of Norfolk, eastern England.
The arrest came after Thames Valley Police said they were reviewing a complaint relating to allegations that the former Prince Andrew exchanged classified documents with the late American convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The alleged conduct is said to have taken place whilst Andrew served as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy.
Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough review, we have now opened an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office.
“It is important for us to maintain the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate these allegations.
“We understand the significant public attention in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who lost his royal titles last year, has denied committing any crime. The man, who turned 66 today, has also denied any involvement in wrongdoing connected to Epstein.
He has yet to respond to the BBC’s request for comment on the specific allegations that emerged after millions of Epstein-related documents were released in January.
BBC Royal Correspondent Sean Coughlan noted that the arrest should not be taken as confirmation of Andrew’s guilt, and that no charges have been brought to date. Nevertheless, as Coughlan reported, this episode represents a precipitous fall from the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
What did King Charles say?
King Charles and Buckingham Palace were not given prior notice that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor would be arrested, according to information received by BBC News.
Following his brother’s arrest, King Charles issued a statement:
“I received the news with deep concern regarding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and the suspicion of misconduct in public office.
“Henceforth, a full, fair, and proper process will proceed so that this matter is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the competent authorities.
“In this regard, as I have previously stated, we offer our full support and cooperation.
“Let me be clear: the law must take its course.
“As this process unfolds, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
“In the meantime, my family and I will continue to carry out our duties and service to you all. Charles R.”
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy responded to Andrew’s arrest by saying: “As Justice Secretary, and as the Prime Minister has stated, no one in this country is above the law. This is now a police investigation, which must be allowed to proceed as it should.”