Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police have now issued an update regarding the ongoing investigation.
The arrest of the former senior royal drew widespread attention last week. Police arrived at his Sandringham home, Wood Farm, around 8 a.m. Thursday and arrested him on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office. It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offense. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Why was Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested?
Mountbatten-Windsor was released later that same day, but the investigation is ongoing. Authorities conducted searches at locations in Berkshire and Norfolk. Thames Valley Police confirmed in a statement on Tuesday that the searches had concluded, but updates on the investigation are “unlikely to be for some time.”
Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Officers have now left the location we have been searching in Berkshire. This concludes the search activity that commenced following our arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk on Thursday. It is important that our investigators are given the time and space to progress their work. We will provide updates when it is appropriate to do so, but this is unlikely to be for some time.”
Trade Minister Sir Chris Bryant criticized the former prince after UK MPs approved releasing files on his role as a trade envoy. According to reports, he said the files would be released “as soon as is practicable and possible within the law.”
The Labour MP labeled former Prince Andrew as “rude, arrogant and entitled” and also described him as “a man on a constant self-aggrandising and self-enriching hustle.”
King Charles: “The law must take its course”
King Charles issued a statement following Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest, expressing his “deepest concern.”
“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” Charles said.
“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 cooperation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
The statement continued: “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. Charles R.”
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