LONDON, United Kingdom, Feb. 19 (ANI) — Prince Andrew, the younger brother of King Charles III, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office in connection with investigations linked to late convicted sex offender and trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, according to a report by CNN citing police.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said a man in his sixties from Norfolk was arrested Feb. 19 as part of an ongoing investigation. Authorities said searches were conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, and the suspect remains in custody.
“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,” the police force said in a statement.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said authorities had opened a formal investigation following a detailed assessment.
“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Wright said. “It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offense. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
According to CNN, police officers arrived early Thursday at Sandringham Estate, the private Norfolk residence of King Charles III, where Andrew had recently relocated after vacating his longtime home in Windsor.
The Sandringham estate falls under the jurisdiction of Norfolk Constabulary, which confirmed it is supporting the Thames Valley Police investigation.
Police had earlier said they were reviewing allegations that a woman was trafficked to the United Kingdom by Epstein to engage in a sexual encounter with Andrew. Authorities are also examining claims that Andrew shared sensitive information with Epstein while serving as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy.
Andrew has previously denied all allegations, stating that he never witnessed or suspected Epstein’s criminal activities. He has not commented on the latest allegations relating to misconduct in public office, CNN reported.
The arrest follows months of intensified scrutiny. In October, King Charles III stripped Andrew of his prince title amid renewed attention after additional Epstein-related documents were released by the US Department of Justice.
The King also initiated proceedings to remove Andrew from his Windsor residence, where he had lived since 2003. Reports indicated that Andrew relocated to Norfolk earlier this year and was provided accommodation and financial support at the King’s private estate.
At least seven British police forces, including the Metropolitan Police, Thames Valley Police, Norfolk Constabulary, Essex Police, Bedfordshire Police, West Midlands Police, and Wiltshire Police, are reviewing or assisting with inquiries related to disclosures in Epstein-related files. (ANI)
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