Former Prince Andrew Arrested on Misconduct in Public Office Charges
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested for Misconduct in Public Office

Former Prince Andrew Arrested on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince who has consistently denied all allegations against him, was dramatically arrested at his temporary residence in Sandringham on his 66th birthday. He is currently being held by police under suspicion of misconduct in public office, a serious common law offence that carries a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Dramatic Morning Raid at Wood Farm

The arrest unfolded early in the morning when six unmarked vehicles carrying eight plain-clothed officers equipped with police-issued laptops were photographed entering Wood Farm around 8am. This development follows confirmation from the National Crime Agency (NCA) that it was assisting UK police forces in investigating information contained within the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Thames Valley Police issued an official statement confirming the arrest of a man in his 60s from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The statement further noted that searches were being conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the ongoing investigation.

Police Statement on the Investigation

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: "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."

Understanding Misconduct in Public Office

Misconduct in public office is a common law offence with origins stretching back to the 13th century. Historically, it has been used to prosecute public officials suspected of revealing information not explicitly safeguarded by statute. The offence involves a demonstrable connection between misconduct and the abuse of authority and duties, and cases must be heard in a Crown Court.

The Crown Prosecution Service confirms that those convicted face a potential maximum life sentence. Their complete official statement reads: "Misconduct in public office ('MiPO') is a common law offence that can be tried only on indictment. It carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The offence concerns serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held."

It adds: "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." Financial exchange is not required for misconduct in public office to have occurred.

Detention Conditions and Legal Process

Andrew could theoretically remain in police custody for 96 hours, though this would necessitate several extensions authorised by senior police officers and a Magistrate's Court. Suspects are typically detained for 12 or 24 hours before being released pending additional investigations or being formally charged.

Police commentator Danny Shaw has stated that Andrew will receive "no special treatment." Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, he said Andrew would be in a "cell with a custody suite" equipped with a "bed and a toilet." The exact location where Andrew is being held remains unknown, as do the specific allegations levelled against him.

The arrest comes after the former prince was stripped of his royal titles and military affiliations, marking a significant development in the ongoing investigations related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. The National Crime Agency's involvement underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the coordinated nature of the investigation across multiple police forces.