Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor spotted leaving custody amid investigation
Britain's Prince Andrew speaks to the media during Sunday service at the Royal Chapel of All Saints at Windsor Great Park, Britain following Friday's death of his father Prince Philip at age 99, April 11, 2021. PHOTO: REUTERS
Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor, once known as Prince Andrew, was photographed on Thursday evening leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk after spending roughly 11 hours in custody, authorities and news photos show. The 66-year-old was released under investigation following an arrest earlier that day on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to allegations around his past ties with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The images captured by Reuters show Mountbatten-Windsor slouched in the back of a Range Rover as he was driven away from the station, marking his first public sighting since the highly unusual arrest. Police have confirmed searches of his Norfolk home concluded and that further inquiries, including at his former residence, Royal Lodge in Berkshire, are still underway.
The arrest comes amid fresh scrutiny stemming from recently released files tied to Epstein and allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive information with the disgraced financier while serving as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy, though he has denied wrongdoing. Authorities have not charged him, and being released under investigation means the inquiry is ongoing.
King Charles III, his elder brother, said authorities have his “full and wholehearted support” and insisted the law must be allowed to take its course after the high-profile detention. The case has drawn intense public and media attention because it represents an unusual legal episode involving a senior member of the royal family who no longer holds official titles.
Critics and commentators have noted that the visual of Andrew leaving custody reinforces the seriousness of the ongoing probe. Although the misconduct allegation is separate from long-standing and previously settled civil claims related to sexual abuse allegations, the renewed focus on his associations with Epstein and the legal scrutiny they bring has reignited discussion online about accountability and royal privilege.
Police have emphasised that the investigation is active and that no further details will be released at this stage. As inquiries continue, public interest remains elevated in how the matter will unfold and whether prosecutors decide to press charges.