Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been granted permission to take legal action against the police force that arrested him on his birthday, a judicial spokesperson has said.
The former Duke of York was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office following allegations he shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein during his time as the UK’s trade envoy.
Challenge over arrest lawfulness
The Telegraph previously reported Andrew has been granted permission to challenge whether Thames Valley Police acted lawfully over the searches relating to his arrest in February.
A judge at the Old Bailey issued warrants which allowed Thames Valley Police to raid Andrew’s residence on the Sandringham Estate and his former Windsor home, Royal Lodge.
High Court hearing scheduled
On Monday, a judicial spokesperson confirmed that a hearing in Andrew’s legal claim is due to take place at 2pm on Thursday at the High Court, before Mr Justice Hilliard.
The spokesperson said the hearing will concern a bid by Thames Valley Police to restrict access to court documents, with the hearing to begin in private. It is not known whether Andrew will attend the hearing.
Arrest and background
Andrew was arrested on February 19, his 66th birthday, and interviewed under caution before being released under investigation.
The legal definition of misconduct in a public office can include a wide range of conduct – including sharing confidential financial information, financial misconduct, wilful neglect of duty, and sexual misconduct. It also covers corruption and improper interference, conflict of interest, perverting the course of justice, dishonesty or fraudulent conduct, and misconduct leading to personal gain.
Late last year, the King stripped his brother of both his right to be a prince and his dukedom over his association with Epstein.
