King Charles’ younger brother, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, 66, was released from police custody on Thursday evening after being questioned over allegations that he passed confidential government documents to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest, made by Thames Valley Police, is tied to claims that Mountbatten-Windsor forwarded reports from his official trade envoy trips to Epstein.
The former prince was questioned all day at a police station in Aylsham, eastern England, and released “under investigation,” according to authorities. Witnesses described him leaving the station visibly shaken.
King Charles expressed deep concern over the situation but emphasized the family’s full cooperation, stating: “The law must take its course. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.” Buckingham Palace was not informed of the arrest in advance.
Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing related to Epstein and previously stepped down from his role as Special Representative for Trade and Investment in 2011 after links to Epstein became public. He was forced to quit all official royal duties in 2019 and was stripped of titles and honours by King Charles in October 2025.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that the investigation into alleged misconduct in public office is ongoing, with updates to be provided in due course.
