King Charles has assured that the British royal family will offer its “wholehearted support and co-operation” as the police investigate ex-royal Andrew and links to disgraced American financier and convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The statement came hours after Andrew was arrested – on his 66th birthday – from the royal family’s estate in Sandringham on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Details of the allegations against Andrew have not been released yet, but they could be connected to his name and photograph appearing in a tranche of redacted documents from Jeffrey Epstein’s office. Here’s the full statement from Thames Valley Police:
As part of the investigation, 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.
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 Const. 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 offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Reacting in a brief statement issued Thursday afternoon, the British Monarch said, “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 is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the authorities
“In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation,” the King, Andrew’s older brother, “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,” he concluded, assuring that “my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
