Prince Andrew Arrested in UK Over Alleged Misconduct; Police Launch Formal Investigation
London: Britain’s Thames Valley Police have arrested Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to official statements and media reports.
The police force, which covers areas west of London including parts of Berkshire and Norfolk, confirmed that a man in his sixties was taken into custody following what it described as a “thorough assessment” of allegations.
Although authorities did not name the individual — in line with standard UK legal practice — they confirmed that the suspect remains in custody while inquiries continue.
Allegations Linked to Epstein Correspondence
The investigation centres on claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor allegedly sent trade-related information to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2010, after Epstein’s release from prison.
US court documents previously revealed that Andrew had emailed Epstein, suggesting it would be “good to catch up in person.”
The two were later photographed together in New York’s Central Park — a meeting Andrew has publicly stated was intended to end their association.
Thames Valley Police said they are conducting searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the probe.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated that investigators are working to ensure the integrity and objectivity of the process, given the intense public scrutiny surrounding the case.
“We understand the significant public interest,” Wright said, adding that updates would be issued at appropriate stages.
Authorities also cautionedthe media and the public to avoid commentary that could risk contempt of court, as the case is now active.
Royal Honours Revoked
The arrest comes months after formal steps were taken to strip Andrew of certain royal honours. According to an official notice published in the London Gazette late last year, King Charles ordered the annulment of Andrew’s appointment to the Order of the Garter, originally conferred in 2006.
His membership in the Royal Victorian Order, granted in 2011, was also cancelled, and his name was removed from the official register.
The Palace had previously stated that such measures were “deemed necessary,” while expressing sympathy for victims of abuse linked to the broader Epstein scandal.
Residence and Status Changes
Andrew has already stepped back from public royal duties in recent years. He was instructed to vacate Royal Lodge in Windsor and has since relocated to accommodation on the King’s estate in Norfolk.
This latest development marks a significant escalation in the long-running controversy surrounding his association with Epstein and places renewed focus on accountability at the highest levels of public life.
Further legal proceedings and official statements are expected in the coming days as investigators continue their inquiries.
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