Former Prince Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the brother of the UK's King Charles III, has been released after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

Police said he was released under investigation, meaning he has neither been charged nor exonerated. Police said they had finished searching Mountbatten-Windsor’s home, but officers were still searching his former residence near Windsor Castle.

King Charles III released a statement Thursday about the news of his brother's arrest, saying, "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," according to FOX News. 

Thames Valley Police statement

What they're saying:

The Thames Valley Police, without naming who it was referring to, issued a statement obtained by the Associated Press noting that "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."

FILE-Prince Andrew, Duke of York attends the traditional Easter Sunday Mattins Service at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle on April 20, 2025 in Windsor, England. (Photo by Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

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.

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"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."

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According to the Associated Press, a U.K. police force said Thursday that it was "assessing" reports that the former Prince Andrew sent trade reports to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Authorities did not name Mountbatten-Windsor, as is normal under U.K. law. However, when asked if he was arrested, the police pointed to a statement saying that they had arrested a man in his 60s. Mountbatten-Windsor is 66.