Andrew was taken into custody on Thursday morning at his residence on the Sandringham Estate — the same day he turned 66.

The former Duke of York was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, accused of allegedly passing confidential trade documents to late convicted rapist Jeffrey Epstein.

If found guilty, he could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

Police Statement and Charles’ Response

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest in a statement, saying they had “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.”

Officers did not name Andrew directly.

In the aftermath of his younger brother’s arrest, King Charles shared his “deepest concern” over the allegations.

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” the 77-year-old monarch said in a statement released through Buckingham Palace.

“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.”

“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” Charles continued. “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.”

New Epstein Documents and Trade Allegations

Andrew’s arrest follows the release of additional documents by the Department of Justice last week, which shed further light on his links to Epstein.

According to the files, Andrew — who served as the UK’s Special Representative for International Trade and Investment from 2001 until 2011 — allegedly sent Epstein reports concerning official visits to Vietnam and Singapore in 2010.

Under the Official Secrets Act, trade envoys are required to keep details of such trips confidential, even after leaving the role.

Anti-monarchy activist Graham Smith reported the alleged misconduct to police, who confirmed they were “assessing” the serious claims.

Separately, UK authorities recently said they were reviewing allegations made by a woman who claimed Epstein sent her to the UK to have sex with Andrew at his former residence, Royal Lodge.

Political Pressure and Past Lawsuit

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has also weighed in, stating that Andrew — who was stripped of his royal titles last year — should appear in court to answer questions about his relationship with Epstein.

In 2021, Andrew was sued for sexual assault by Virginia Giuffre, who alleged he raped her three times, beginning when she was 17, as part of Epstein’s sex trafficking operation.

That lawsuit was settled out of court for a reported multimillion-pound sum.

Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection to Epstein.

William and Kate Speak Out

Earlier this month, William, 43, and Kate, 44, addressed the Epstein files publicly for the first time, saying they were “deeply concerned by the continuing revelations.”

“Their thoughts remain focused on the victims,” their spokesperson added.