Former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, with police conducting searches at his Sandringham Estate and in Berkshire. The arrest, occurring on his 66th birthday, follows renewed scrutiny stemming from the release of the Epstein files.
The Arrest and Allegations
Six unmarked police vehicles and approximately eight plainclothes officers were observed at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate shortly after 8:00 AM local time. Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office, but did not explicitly name Mountbatten-Windsor, citing standard procedure.
This arrest comes after Mountbatten-Windsor relinquished his royal titles and moved from Royal Lodge to the Sandringham Estate, a private property owned by King Charles. The investigation centers on allegations that he shared confidential government information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a British trade envoy.
The Epstein Files and Renewed Scrutiny
The latest wave of scrutiny originates from the release of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. These files prompted calls for a police investigation into claims that Mountbatten-Windsor divulged sensitive information. King Charles has indicated a willingness to cooperate with the police investigation.
Separate from this current investigation, allegations of sexual abuse involving Mountbatten-Windsor and a woman flown to the UK by Epstein have as well surfaced. Although, this matter appears to be distinct from the current misconduct in public office inquiry.
Public Reaction and Legal Principles
Police acknowledged the significant public interest in the case and pledged to provide updates as appropriate. Mountbatten-Windsor maintains his innocence and has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the principle that “nobody is above the law,” stating that this principle should apply equally to all individuals, including Mountbatten-Windsor.
Mountbatten-Windsor previously settled a sexual abuse lawsuit in 2022 for an undisclosed sum.
Who was Jeffrey Epstein?
FAQ
- What is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor accused of? He is currently under arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
- Where is the investigation taking place? Searches are being conducted at his Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and in Berkshire.
- What is the connection to Jeffrey Epstein? The arrest follows the release of documents from the Epstein files, raising questions about Mountbatten-Windsor’s relationship with Epstein and potential disclosure of confidential information.
