Arrest and Police Searches
Prince Andrew was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office connected to his former role as the UK’s trade envoy. Police also carried out searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk. Authorities said a man in his sixties remains in custody while investigations continue. Andrew turned 66 on the day of his arrest.
Unmarked police vehicles were seen outside his Norfolk residence at Sandringham. Officials emphasized the need to protect the integrity of the inquiry and promised updates as the investigation progresses.
Allegations Involving Jeffrey Epstein
Recent reports suggest Andrew may have sent sensitive documents to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as trade envoy. Emails reported by the Financial Times indicate he discussed an $8 billion oil-for-cash deal with Epstein and a banker, while Epstein was under house arrest for a 2008 conviction.
Royal expert Craig Prescott of Royal Holloway, University of London called it one of the most dramatic falls from grace for a royal in modern times. Police commentator Danny Shaw explained that suspects are usually held for 12 to 24 hours, with a maximum of 96 hours possible under special extension. Andrew is reportedly being treated like any other detainee, with standard custody conditions.
Royal Response and Historical Controversies
Thames Valley Police had confirmed earlier that allegations against Andrew were under review. The situation prompted King Charles III to express concern and pledge support for the investigation from Buckingham Palace.
In October, Charles removed Andrew’s royal titles and required him to vacate Royal Lodge at Windsor Castle, following years of scrutiny over his ties to Epstein. Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019 after a controversial BBC interview.
Andrew has not been charged in connection with Epstein and denies wrongdoing. In 2022, he reached a settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual abuse at age 17. The settlement did not include an admission of guilt, though Andrew acknowledged her suffering. Giuffre later died by suicide in April at 41, with her memoir Nobody’s Girl published posthumously in October.
