Prince Andrew Arrested. King Charles Issues Strong Statement

The former Prince Andrew, the second son of the late Queen Elizabeth II and the brother of King Charles III, has been arrested.

King Charles released a statement pledging cooperation with authorities.

"The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct," a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said in a statement. "While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police we stand ready to support them as you would expect."

Prince Andrew Is Accused of Sharing Confidential Governmental Information

The accusations against Prince Andrew relate to the Royal allegedly sharing "confidential government information" with Jeffrey Epstein when Andrew "was a British trade envoy."

The Thames Valley Police conformed the arrest without naming former Prince Andrew, referring to him instead as "a man in his sixties from Norfolk."

"Thames Valley Police has opened an investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office," the press release read. "In UK law, an arrest requires police to have reasonable grounds to suspect an offence has taken place and reasonable grounds for believing that it is necessary to arrest the person in question."

Thames Valley Police Are 'Carrying Out Searches' at Andrew's Addresses in Berkshire & Norfolk

The Thames Valley Police were searching Andrew's two homes.

"As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) 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," they wrote. "The man remains in police custody at this time. "

"We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court," wrote police.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.  

“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence. 

“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.” 

Police added, "We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court."

They concluded: "Thames Valley Police will not be making any further statement at this time and will not be holding a press conference or conducting any media interviews in relation to this investigation."

Andrew has denied wrongdoing but his friendship with Epstein has already cost him his Royal title; photos of him turned up again in the release of government documents relating to the case.

Related: