The police inquiry into Britain’s former Prince Andrew is expected to be extensive and drawn-out, senior officers have said, following his arrest earlier this year on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The offence can encompass serious wrongdoing, including sexual impropriety.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, was interviewed under caution for several hours after being arrested at his Norfolk home in February. The arrest followed the release of millions of documents by the US Department of Justice related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein and has expressed regret over their friendship. He has not made a public statement since his arrest.
Police are reviewing claims that a woman was brought to a Windsor address in 2010 for sexual purposes. According to a lawyer representing the alleged victim, the woman had been sent to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with the former prince. The woman herself has not yet come forward to report the alleged offence.
“In terms of Epstein victims and survivors, we hope that anyone with relevant information will come forward, and I really want to stress that our door is open whenever a victim or survivor is ready to engage with us. We're ready for you at whatever point that may be,” said Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police.
The investigation is focusing on Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s role as the UK’s special representative for trade and investment between 2001 and 2011. Emails released by the US Department of Justice suggest he may have shared sensitive information with Epstein.
“The investigation is by necessity hugely thorough and will take time. It’s not going to be a quick investigation by any means,” Mr Wright told reporters. Misconduct in public office carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and can involve anything from corruption and the sharing of confidential information to sexual misconduct.
Legal complexities add to the investigation, including determining whether Mr Mountbatten-Windsor held a public office at the time of the alleged offences—a classification that is not clearly defined. Police have indicated that even if he did not, they would continue to investigate any evidence of other offences.
A team of experienced detectives is leading the inquiry and remains in regular contact with prosecutors for guidance. Investigators have formally requested the original Epstein files from the US Department of Justice but have yet to receive them.
