In an extraordinary development, King Charleshas issued a formal statement following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The King said he had learned of the news “with the deepest concern,” adding that the matter must now follow “the full, fair and proper process” and that the authorities have the Royal Family’s “full and wholehearted support and co-operation.” He concluded: “The law must take its course.”
Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was arrested, with searches carried out in Berkshire and Norfolk. Although officers declined to name the suspect, the Palace statement removed any doubt. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed a formal investigation has been opened, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the process. The charge — misconduct in public office — is a serious common law offence carrying a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, though no charges have been filed and an arrest is not evidence of guilt.
Buckingham Palace confirmed it was not informed in advance. Prince William and Catherine are understood to support the King’s remarks. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated that “nobody is above the law.” The King continued with a scheduled appearance at London Fashion Week, declining to answer questions from reporters as he maintained public duties.
The arrest marks a dramatic escalation in a saga stretching back decades, from Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein to the fallout from his BBC Newsnight interview and his 2022 civil settlement with Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide in 2025. Her family welcomed the arrest, calling it proof that “no one is above the law.”
As investigations expand across multiple police forces and political reaction intensifies on both sides of the Atlantic, commentators warn this moment may come to define the reign of King Charles. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains in custody. No charges have been filed. The investigation is active. And as the King stated, the law must now take its course.
Palace Intrigue remains on a modified publishing schedule as this story develops.
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William and Catherine: The Monarchy's New Era: The Inside StoryThe Royal Insider: My Life with the Queen, the King and Princess Diana