King Charles was not given a heads-up about the arrest of his brother, ex-Prince Andrew. We understands that Buckingham Palace was not informed of Andrew’s arrest before it happened.
The former Duke of York was arrested on Feb. 19, his 66th birthday, on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Authorities are investigating the King’s brother, who is now called Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, around an allegation claiming that he shared confidential information with the late Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a trade envoy for the U.K. Queen Elizabeth‘s second son held that role from 2001 to 2011. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein.
Andrew was arrested at his current home on the King’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk, and the monarch released a statement soon after, emphasizing that the palace would cooperate with police.
“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,” the King said in a statement shared by Buckingham Palace.
“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. 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,” he continued and signed, “Charles R.”
Kate Middleton and Prince William are not expected to issue a separate statement on Andrew’s arrest, but we understands that they support the King’s statement.
It’s thought that Andrew is the first member of the British royal family to be arrested in modern history. The whereabouts of his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, were unknown on Thursday.
The first indication of Andrew’s detainment came when photos showed police officers at Wood Farm in Sandringham, where he has been living since his recent move from Royal Lodge. Thames Valley Police later shared that his home in Windsor was also being searched.
Thames Valley Police said in a statement, “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,” it continued, adding that authorities would not be naming the individual.
