Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was released from police custody on Thursday after being arrested earlier that day. He remains under investigation for misconduct in public office, a matter that has surfaced following recent revelations connected to Jeffrey Epstein.
The former prince, who celebrated his 66th birthday on the day of his arrest, was taken into custody in Norfolk, England. He was later photographed leaving a police station in the area. His release followed nearly 10 to 11 hours of questioning.
The arrest is reportedly linked to allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor may have shared sensitive government information with Epstein, a convicted sex offender with whom the former prince had a known association. These allegations have gained renewed attention following the release of documents related to Epstein.
Mountbatten-Windsor has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. While Buckingham Palace has not issued a direct statement from King Charles III, a spokesperson indicated the King's "deepest concern" over the allegations. It is understood that Mountbatten-Windsor is cooperating with the investigation.
Read More: Prince Andrew Released After 11-Hour Police Detention; Monarchy Faces Renewed Scrutiny in London
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This development is the latest in a series of public scrutinies concerning his past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein.
Timing: The arrest occurred on Mountbatten-Windsor's 66th birthday.
Location of Arrest: He was arrested at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.
Custody Period: He spent approximately 10-11 hours in police custody.
Release Status: He was released under investigation, meaning the inquiry continues.
Police Involvement: Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest.
Property Searches: Reports indicate that police searched properties linked to Mountbatten-Windsor, including his former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor.
Prince Andrew's Association with Jeffrey Epstein
The current investigation stems from the ongoing fallout surrounding Jeffrey Epstein's activities. Mountbatten-Windsor's friendship with Epstein has been a subject of public interest for some time.
Epstein's Convictions: Jeffrey Epstein was a convicted sex offender who died by suicide in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
Royal Title: Last year, King Charles III removed Mountbatten-Windsor's royal title and asked him to vacate his residence due to his association with Epstein.
Allegations: The core allegation is that Mountbatten-Windsor might have passed confidential government information to Epstein. This claim has gained prominence with the recent release of Epstein's files.
Denials: Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any illegal activities or wrongdoing related to Epstein.
Official Statements and Reactions
While direct quotes from the former prince are not available following his release, official bodies have confirmed the situation.
"Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been released under investigation following his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office."— UK Police
King Charles III, through a Palace spokesperson, expressed his "deepest concern" regarding the allegations facing his brother. The spokesperson also confirmed King Charles's pledge of support and cooperation with the investigation.
International Interest
The arrest and subsequent investigation have drawn attention beyond the United Kingdom.
US Scrutiny: United States Congressman Suhas Subramanyam indicated that developments are being "watched closely" in Washington.
Testimony Issues: It is noted that the King's brother cannot be legally compelled to provide testimony in the US.
Remaining Questions
Several aspects of the situation remain unclear as the investigation progresses.
Specifics of Information: What sensitive government information, if any, is alleged to have been passed on, and to whom specifically within Epstein's network?
Scope of Misconduct: What precise definition of "misconduct in public office" is being applied in this investigation?
Timeline of Events: How long have these allegations been under active police review, and what triggered the recent arrest?
Royal Lodge Search: What, if any, information was sought or discovered during the searches at Royal Lodge?
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as police continue their inquiries.
Read More: King Charles Says Law Must Take Course After Brother Andrew's Arrest in London
Sources Used
NPR: Ex-Prince Andrew is released after his arrest over Epstein revelations.
Context: Reports on the arrest and release, mentioning King Charles's stance and the former prince's eviction from his residence.
CNN: Live updates: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested after Epstein files revelations as King says ‘law must take its course’.
URL: https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-uk-police-02-19-26
Context: Provides live updates on the arrest, confirming Mountbatten-Windsor's identity and release status.
The Independent: Former prince pictured leaving police station after properties raided: Live updates.
Context: Details the arrest, release, and associated property searches, including the police force involved.
BBC News: Andrew pictured leaving police station following arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office - live updates.
Context: Covers the arrest and release, noting international interest from the US.
RNZ: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor released under investigation after almost 10 hours in custody.
Context: Focuses on the duration of custody and the reason for the arrest, linking it to Epstein files.
IBTimes: Prince Andrew Arrested: A Historic Royal Scandal.
URL: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/prince-andrew-arrest-royal-scandal-1780332
Context: Frames the arrest as a significant royal event and notes the release under investigation.
France 24: UK police say former prince Andrew 'released under investigation'.
URL: https://www.france24.com/en/uk-police-say-former-prince-andrew-released-under-investigation
Context: Reports the police confirmation of the release status.
NBC News: Live updates: Former Prince Andrew 'released under investigation' after arrest by British police.
Context: Provides live updates on the arrest, release, and the context of his association with Epstein.
