King Charles III Affirms Support for Legal Process After Brother Andrew's Arrest
Britain's King Charles III has publicly declared that "the law must take its course" in response to the arrest of his younger brother, former prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The arrest, which occurred on Thursday, centers on suspicions of misconduct in public office, intensifying scrutiny over Andrew's connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Monarch's Statement of Concern and Cooperation
In a statement reported by the BBC, King Charles expressed his "deepest concern" regarding the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He stressed that the investigation would adhere to a "full, fair and proper process" conducted by the appropriate authorities. The monarch added, "In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course." He further noted that it would be inappropriate to comment further as the legal proceedings continue.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who celebrated his 66th birthday on Thursday, was apprehended by Thames Valley police at his residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, eastern England. The former prince, who was stripped of his royal titles in 2022 due to his associations with Epstein, remains in police custody. Thames Valley police confirmed they have initiated an investigation into the alleged offence, though they did not name the suspect in accordance with standard UK procedures.
Previously, the police force indicated they were "assessing" reports that Mountbatten-Windsor, during his tenure as Britain's special envoy for international trade, transmitted confidential trade documents to Epstein in 2010. These reports emerged from millions of pages of documents released last month by the US justice department as part of its investigation into Epstein, according to the Associated Press.
Longstanding Shadows Over the Royal Family
The links between Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Jeffrey Epstein have cast a prolonged shadow over the British royal family. In 2019, following a controversial BBC interview where Andrew attempted to address the relationship, the late Queen Elizabeth II compelled him to relinquish his royal duties and charitable work. Last year, additional revelations from a book and the release of court documents prompted King Charles to revoke Andrew's title of "prince" and request that he vacate his Windsor home.
Police and Palace Responses
Assistant chief constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley police stated, "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time." Earlier this week, unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers were reportedly observed outside Andrew's Norfolk residence.
Buckingham Palace has affirmed its readiness to cooperate fully with authorities investigating Mountbatten-Windsor's connections to Epstein, underscoring the institution's commitment to transparency and legal compliance.
