Washington, 19 Feb: Prince Andrew, Duke of York, the younger brother of King Charles III, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office following a police investigation into allegations that he shared official government material with the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
In a statement issued Thursday, Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his sixties was taken into custody and that searches were being conducted at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk. Authorities said the arrest followed a “thorough assessment” of material that emerged after the United States released millions of pages of documents related to Epstein.
Investigators are examining claims that, while serving as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy in 2010, the duke forwarded reports concerning official overseas visits — including briefings related to Southeast Asia and Afghanistan — to Epstein. Police emphasized that arrest does not imply guilt and that the suspect remains in custody as inquiries continue.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said the case involves “particular complexities,” noting that misconduct in public office is a common law offence rather than one codified in statute. If charged and convicted, the offence carries a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment and would be tried in a Crown Court.
Buckingham Palace indicated that the royal household would cooperate fully with authorities. King Charles said in a brief statement that “the law must take its course,” adding that it would be inappropriate to comment further while the process is ongoing.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that “no one is above the law” and said all relevant parties should assist investigators as required.
The developments mark an unprecedented moment for the modern monarchy. While senior royals have faced legal scrutiny in the past, this is the first time a figure of such rank has been arrested in connection with alleged misconduct in public office. Media commentators have described the situation as a serious reputational challenge for the institution, which has already sought to distance itself from the duke in recent years.
The investigation is separate from previous civil litigation in the United States involving Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, which was settled without admission of liability. Police have also confirmed they are assessing additional allegations connected to events in 2010.
Authorities have urged caution in public commentary to avoid prejudicing active proceedings. Further updates, they said, will be provided “at the appropriate time.”
