Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor leaves Aylsham Police Station in a vehicle after being released under investigation following arrest over misconduct allegations linked to DOJ Epstein files. REUTERS/Phil Noble
LONDON, Feb 19 (Epicstorian News) — Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew and brother of King Charles III, has been released “under investigation” following his arrest earlier Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The arrest stemmed from documents recently released by the United States Department of Justice relating to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The former prince, 66, was taken into custody as Thames Valley Police investigated claims that he disclosed sensitive information while serving as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
He has consistently denied all allegations, asserting he neither witnessed nor suspected any misconduct linked to Epstein.
Police Investigation and Searches
Thames Valley Police issued a statement confirming the arrest and subsequent release under investigation. “On Thursday we arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The arrested man has now been released under investigation. We can also confirm that our searches in Norfolk have now concluded,” the statement said.
Authorities conducted searches at Wood Farm, Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence on the Sandringham Estate, and at Royal Lodge, his former Windsor home. No additional charges were announced following the searches.
Historical Context of Royal Arrests
The arrest marked the first time a senior member of the British royal family has been detained in nearly four centuries. Historical records indicate the last comparable royal arrest occurred during the English Civil War in the 17th century.
Legal experts note that such cases are exceptionally rare, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the investigation.
King Charles III Responds
King Charles III issued a statement expressing “deepest concern” over the events and pledged Buckingham Palace’s “full and wholehearted support and co-operation” with investigators. “What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner,” the King stated. “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
The monarch emphasized that further public commentary from the royal family would be inappropriate while the investigation continues, noting that his family would continue in its duties and service.
Details From DOJ Files
Emails and documents released by the US Department of Justice last month suggested that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor may have shared confidential government information with Jeffrey Epstein during his trade envoy tenure.
Some documents also indicated the former prince advocated on Epstein’s behalf during a 2010 visit to the United Arab Emirates with Queen Elizabeth II.
Media outlets reported that the files contained images and correspondence cited in investigative reviews, though authorities have not publicly confirmed the details.
Misconduct in Public Office: Legal Framework
In England and Wales, misconduct in public office is a common law offense addressing serious, willful abuse or neglect of official responsibilities. Crown Prosecution Service guidance defines the offense as carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
A 2015 Court of Appeal ruling described the offense as “an ancient common law offense” with roots tracing back to the 13th century. Research from Spotlight on Corruption indicates that between 2014 and 2024, 191 individuals were convicted, with over 92% being prison or police officers.
Only 2% of convictions involved senior public officials or executives, underlining the rarity of such cases among high-ranking figures.
Previous Allegations and Legal History
Mountbatten-Windsor has faced prior legal scrutiny related to Epstein, including civil litigation in the United States filed by Virginia Giuffre alleging sexual misconduct. The former prince denied wrongdoing and settled the civil case financially without admission of liability.
Following publication of Giuffre’s memoir, King Charles III removed Mountbatten-Windsor’s remaining royal titles, including the formal use of “Prince.” Despite this, he remains eighth in the line of succession to the British throne.
International Reactions
US President Donald Trump commented on the arrest aboard Air Force One, calling the situation a “shame” and expressing sympathy for King Charles III, whom he described as a “fantastic man.”
Trump noted that the arrest was a significant moment for the royal family but did not speculate on legal outcomes.
Current Status and Legal Proceedings
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains released under investigation. No additional charges have been filed. Authorities confirmed that searches of Sandringham and Windsor residences were concluded, and investigations are ongoing.
Public and Media Attention
The arrest and release under investigation have dominated UK and international news. Photographs of Andrew departing Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk circulated widely, emphasizing the rarity of such events in modern British history. Media coverage has focused on the unprecedented nature of a senior royal being involved in a public office misconduct investigation.
Legal and Institutional Implications
Experts note that misconduct in public office involving former diplomats or senior royals is historically rare. The case highlights the legal mechanisms in place for public accountability and the potential scrutiny of high-ranking officials and royal family members.
Related: Former Prince Andrew Arrested in Epstein-Linked Misconduct Probe
King Charles III’s decision to publicly emphasize due process aligns with established constitutional and legal protocols.
The combination of DOJ Epstein file revelations, UK police investigations, and royal family responses mark an unprecedented moment in modern British history.
