London, Feb 19 (Reuters/BBC) — King Charles III’s younger brother has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office following allegations he sent confidential government documents to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Key Developments
- BBC reported that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on Thursday.
- Thames Valley Police confirmed they opened an investigation into misconduct in public office.
- Police stated that “a man in his sixties from Norfolk has been arrested and remains in custody.”
- Authorities declined to name the individual in line with national guidance.
Background to the Investigation
- Earlier this month, police said they were examining allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor passed official documents to Epstein.
- The allegations stem from material contained in the U.S. government’s release of Epstein-related files, totaling more than three million pages.
- Documents reportedly suggest that in 2010, Andrew forwarded reports concerning official visits to Vietnam, Singapore, and other countries during his tenure as UK trade envoy.
- The anti-monarchy group Republic formally reported him to police following the U.S. document release.
Arrest Details
- UK newspapers reported that six unmarked police cars and around eight plain-clothed officers attended Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate in eastern England, where Andrew resides.
- The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday.
Official Response
- Thames Valley Police described the offence as involving “particular complexities.”
- The Crown Prosecution Service is in discussions with police.
- There has been no immediate comment from Buckingham Palace.
- Andrew has consistently denied wrongdoing in relation to Epstein and previously stated he regretted their friendship. He has not responded to requests for comment following the latest document release.
The investigation remains ongoing.
