Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the Duke of York and brother of King Charles III, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to Thames Valley Police.
In a statement, the force said officers are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of an ongoing investigation. Norfolk Constabulary confirmed it is supporting the operation.
Footage filmed earlier on Wednesday showed vehicles believed to be police cars arriving at the Sandringham Estate, where Andrew has been living. It remains unclear where the arrest itself took place.
The investigation follows an assessment by Thames Valley Police of a complaint concerning the alleged sharing of confidential material with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew, who turns 66 today, has previously denied wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. He has not responded to requests for comment regarding specific allegations tied to the release of Epstein-related files in January.
Misconduct in public office is considered a complex and relatively rare offence. It requires investigators to establish that a public officer wilfully neglected their duty or engaged in wilful misconduct, that the conduct amounted to an abuse of public trust, and that it was carried out without reasonable excuse or justification.
Former senior officers say an arrest enables police to secure and examine electronic devices, documents and other materials, as well as to conduct property searches where necessary.
No charges have been brought at this stage, and the investigation remains ongoing.
via BBC
