Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the King's brother, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to Thames Valley Police. The arrest was made at the King's Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, where Mountbatten-Windsor has been staying.
As reported by BBC News, the arrest comes after a complaint was made about the alleged sharing of confidential material by Mountbatten-Windsor with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein.
Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested at about 08:00 GMT on Thursday, which was also his 66th birthday. Neither the King nor Buckingham Palace was informed in advance of the arrest, which was carried out by officers from Thames Valley Police.
Police Response
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police stated, "We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time." The force said it would not be naming the arrested man "as per national guidance".
Thames Valley Police is also carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, including the Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, where Mountbatten-Windsor lived until recently.
Investigation Underway
The investigation is expected to focus on allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential documents, including reports from trade visits and a Treasury briefing, with Epstein. BBC News home and legal correspondent Dominic Casciani explained that misconduct in public office is a complex offense that requires the police to establish whether the suspect was a "public officer" and whether they wilfully neglected their duty or misconducted themselves.
The King has stated, "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. The law must take its course." The King's statement emphasized that the royal family will cooperate fully with the investigation.
