Prince Andrew arrested on misconduct suspicion at Sandringham
Summary
Prince Andrew arrested on misconduct suspicion related to Epstein files, released under investigation. King Charles said the law must take its course.
Prince Andrew arrested on misconduct suspicion
Prince Andrew was arrested on Thursday at Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, was made on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
He was taken to a police station in Aylsham and later released under investigation. The arrest follows a police assessment of a complaint regarding the alleged sharing of confidential material with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Royal family responds to the arrest
King Charles III issued a brief statement, saying "the law must take its course." Both the King and Queen have continued to carry out their royal duties as normal following the news.
Prince Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein. He has not responded to the BBC's requests for comment on specific allegations stemming from the release of millions of Epstein files in January.
Background of the Epstein investigation
The arrest revives scrutiny of Andrew's ties to Jeffrey Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges. The relationship has been a persistent source of controversy and has severely damaged the prince's public standing.
Key moments in this ongoing saga include:
- His 2019 BBC Newsnight interview about the friendship, which was widely criticized.
- His subsequent withdrawal from public duties later that year.
- The settlement of a civil sexual assault case in the US in 2022.
- The January 2024 release of court documents naming numerous Epstein associates.
Legal and public repercussions
The charge of misconduct in public office is a serious criminal offense under English law. It can apply to public officials who wilfully neglect their duty or act in a way that constitutes an abuse of the public's trust.
For the royal family, this represents another significant reputational challenge. It comes as King Charles seeks to define a more modern, streamlined monarchy.
The arrest ensures that a chapter the palace had hoped was closed will remain a dominant news story, with potential legal proceedings ahead.
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