King Charles III on Thursday said the law must take its course following the arrest of his younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on suspicion of misconduct in public office amid renewed scrutiny linked to the Epstein files. The monarch said he had “learned with the deepest concern” about the development and added that the royal family would fully support the ongoing police investigation.
The statement came hours after Andrew was taken into custody on his 66th birthday. Police have launched an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office, though authorities have not publicly detailed the full scope of the claims. The case has intensified public attention on the British royal family.
Andrew, formerly known as Prince Andrew, faces allegations that he passed confidential government documents to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The accusations resurfaced following the release of files in the United States, prompting fresh examination of his past associations. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Earlier in the day, police activity was reported at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate in eastern England, where Andrew resides. Several unmarked vehicles and plain-clothed officers were seen at the property as part of the investigation.
Andrew, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth II, has long faced controversy over his links to Epstein, who died in prison in 2019 after being convicted of sex offences. While expressing regret over the friendship, Andrew has repeatedly rejected allegations of misconduct.