King Charles' brother Andrew released after 12 hours of questioning; former prince spends birthday in police custody

 

King Charles' brother Andrew released after 12 hours of questioning; former prince spends birthday in police custody

London: Britain's King Charles's brother and former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been released after nearly 12 hours of questioning. Police arrested the former prince at Wood Farm, Sandringham Estate, in Norfolk, on Thursday morning, February 19, his 66th birthday, on charges of misconduct in his official position.

Police said Andrew was released late that evening under investigation. This means Andrew is no longer in custody, but a criminal investigation into his conduct remains ongoing. The allegations against Andrew relate to his role as Britain's Special Representative for International Trade and Investment.

The recent release of files in the US related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has created a storm within the British royal family. The Epstein files reveal that former Prince Andrew shared sensitive government reports with Jeffrey Epstein. Legal experts say that misconduct in a public office is a serious crime in England and Wales, punishable by up to life imprisonment. However, Andrew has denied any wrongdoing.

King Charles said, "Let the law take its course."

Buckingham Palace has maintained a transparent stance regarding Andrew's arrest and has shown no sympathy for the former prince. King Charles III stated that the law should take its course in the investigation of his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Earlier this month, Buckingham Palace issued a statement saying it was "ready" to cooperate with the police investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct. Last year, the King stripped Andrew of all his royal titles of "Prince" and "Duke of York."

No special treatment for Andrew

Meanwhile, reports indicate that Andrew was treated without special treatment during his detention. His arrest coincided with his 66th birthday. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police said, "Following a thorough assessment, we have launched an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office." He added, "It is important that we maintain impartiality and integrity when investigating this alleged crime."

He added, "We understand the widespread public interest in this matter and will provide detailed information in due course." Under UK law, to arrest someone, police must have reasonable grounds to suspect a crime has been committed and substantial grounds to believe it is necessary to arrest the person concerned.