Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office at his home in Norfolk on February 19th, his 66th Birthday. This comes after King Charles III initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew due to allegations of misconduct and his ill-judged relationship with the Epstein..
Vehicles – believed to be unmarked police cars – were seen earlier this morning at Sandringham in Norfolk, where he has been living since leaving his home in Windsor.
This is the first time the former prince, who has faced numerous allegations over this links to the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has been arrested.
Andrew has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
BBC News understand he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The King 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 co-operation.
Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. 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.
Police said:
As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.
“The man remains in police custody at this time.
“We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
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 offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III has initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew due to allegations of misconduct and his ill-judged relationship with the Epstein.
His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew.
Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease and he will move to alternative private accommodation. These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him.
Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.
The King consulted the Government, acting “with support of the wider family, including the Prince of Wales”. “These decisions have been the King’s, given the serious lapses of judgment which his brother has shown.”
Andrew Mountbatten Windsor will move to a private property at Sandringham, funded by the King. Sarah Ferguson will make her own arrangements.
Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie will retain their titles.
A few weeks ago, Prince Andrew released a statement:
In discussion with The King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family. I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first. I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life.
With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me.
