Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was later released from custody. After the arrest, Donald Trump spoke about Andrew on board Air Force One, and made some unexpected comments about the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
On Thursday morning, on his 66th birthday, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested by police at his home, Wood Farm, in Sandringham. He was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
The Thames Valley Police released a statement after Andrew Monutbatten-Windsor was arrested. They said it was assessing a complaint over the alleged sharing of confidential material with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
“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.“
“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office, Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said in a statement.
Donald Trump breaks silence on Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor amid arrest
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence,” he continued. “‘We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.’”
After spending about 11 hours in police custody, Andrew was released later the same day, though police say the investigation continues.
Shortly after the news broke, Donald Trump spoke to reporters on board Air Force One on the arrest of Andrew. He called what happened a bad moment for the royal family and also tried to explain his own connection to the wider case:
“I think it’s a shame, I think it’s very sad. I think it’s so bad for the royal family. It’s very, very sad. To me, it’s a very sad thing.”
Trump added comments about Andrew’s brother, King Charles, who is expected to visit the United States soon.
“His brother, who is coming to our country very soon, [he’s] a fantastic man — King.”
When asked about whether anyone linked to Epstein in the U.S. might also be arrested, Trump said something surprising about himself:
“It’s really interesting, because nobody used to speak about Epstein when he was alive, and now they speak, but I’m the one that can talk about it because I’ve been totally exonerated.”
King Charles says police have his “full and wholehearted support”
At the same time as Trump’s comments, the British royal family also responded. King Charles released a statement saying he was deeply concerned about the situation and that the law must be allowed to take its course.
“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. 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,” King Charles said.
The monarch continued, “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
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