Credit: Alamy
King Charles Breaks Silence On Former Prince Andrew’s Arrest
King Charles has broken his silence after his brother, the former Prince Andrew, was arrested and taken into custody this morning (February 19) by officers.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested by officers in plain clothes this morning at his residence in Sandringham, Norfolk, on his 66th birthday.
The former prince, brother of King Charles, was arrested after a ‘thorough assessment’ by Thames Valley Police, with an investigation having now opened.
This is the first time the former prince, who has faced a barrage of allegations over his links to the convicted s** offender Jeffrey Epstein, has been arrested.
Following the action, it’s important to note that the arrest should not be seen as any indication of guilt, and there are currently no charges.
In most cases in the UK, suspects are held for 12 to 24 hours before either being charged or released pending further investigation.
Andrew stripped of title late last year
Announcing the bombshell news in October, Andrew wrote: “In discussion with the king, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the royal family.
“I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first.
“I stand by my decision five years ago to stand back from public life.”
Andrew has consistently denied all allegations of s**ual misconduct against him, but noted that, ultimately, the subject no doubt distracts from the work of the royal family.
On behalf of the King and Queen Camilla, Buckingham Palace issued an unprecedented response to Andrew’s statement last year, which focused predominantly on the victims.
It read: “Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”
Why was Andrew arrested?
Son of the late Queen Elizabeth, Andrew, was arrested this morning on suspicion of misconduct in public office, as per the BBC – marking a very significant development in the very public case.
It’s been reported that Thames Valley Police have been looking into the allegations against Andrew, with the support of Norfolk Constabulary.
While the force investigates allegations of misconduct in public office, it is also looking into allegations that a second woman was sent to the UK by Epstein for a s**ual encounter with the former prince.
What sentence can misconduct in public office carry?
According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), misconduct in public office is an offence that can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
It explains: “The offence concerns serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held. There must be a direct link between the misconduct and an abuse of those powers or responsibilities.
“The Court of Appeal has made it clear that the offence should be strictly confined, and it can raise complex and sometimes sensitive issues.”
Authorities issue major update
Following the arrest, a statement from Thames Valley police reads: “As part of the investigation, we have today 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 Constable Oliver Wright added: “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.”
King Charles breaks his silence on arrest
Following the arrest of his younger brother, King Charles has issued a statement which reads: “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.
“In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.”
The monarch added: “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.”
Queen continues to carry out engagements
Just hours after Andrew’s arrest, it appears that Queen Camilla has arrived for an engagement in Westminster, central London.
She is attending a lunchtime orchestral concert, and was greeted by representatives as she arrived.
Related Article: Andrew Mountbatten Windsor Hit With Shocking New Allegations
Related Article: How Prince Andrew Will Make Money Now He’s Given Up Royal Titles
Want more stuff like this?
Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox!
