The arrest of former senior royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, drew widespread attention last week, and now Prince William has spoken publicly for the first time since.
Police arrived at Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s Sandringham home, Wood Farm, around 8 a.m. Thursday. The BBC was first to report it. He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said, “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.”
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offense,” he continued. “We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
Authorities said searches were being carried out at locations in Berkshire and Norfolk. Andrew was released later that day, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Gareth Martin, a criminal defense lawyer, told Daily Mail:
“To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove more than just a mistake. They must show that a public officer, acting in their official capacity, willfully neglected their duty or misconducted themselves to such a degree that it strikes at the very heart of the public’s trust in that office. The threshold for this offense is exceptionally high. It should only be used where the conduct is so blameworthy that it warrants criminal punishment rather than civil or disciplinary action.”
The arrest marks the most significant scandal to hit the royal family in a generation. Speaking at the BAFTAs Sunday, February 22, Prince William was asked if he had seen the movie “Hamnet.” He replied, “I need to be in quite a calm state and I am not at the moment.”
King Charles III issued a statement
After news of the arrest broke, King Charles III issued a statement expressing his “deepest concern.” He said:
“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.”
“What now follows is the full, fair, and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and cooperation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
He went on: “As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all. Charles R.”
Thames Valley Police are investigating a complaint that Andrew allegedly shared confidential information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a trade envoy.
In recent years, Andrew has also faced allegations from Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein accuser, who claims she was forced to have sex with the former prince in the early 2000s when she was 17. The former prince has denied all accusations against him.