Police are continuing to investigate Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor after he was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office earlier this year. Detectives questioned the former prince in February following claims that he shared confidential information with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy.
Officers have searched two properties linked to the former Duke of York – Royal Lodge in Berkshire and his current residence, Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate – and interviewed Mr Mountbatten-Windsor under caution. He was subsequently released under investigation.
Sexual Misconduct Considered
On Friday, officers from Thames Valley Police (TVP) urged a woman who alleges she was sent to the UK by Epstein to have sex with the then Prince Andrew to come forward and speak to investigators. The force is understood to be evaluating sexual misconduct allegations as part of the broader misconduct in a public office (MIPO) investigation.
A source indicated that the investigation is taking a “broad view” and that “all aspects” of the offence will be considered. Misconduct in public office is a criminal offence concerning serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities pertaining to the public office held. This can include corruption, perversion of the course of justice, financial misconduct, and sexual misconduct.
Broader Investigation Scope
Mr Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of MIPO following reports that he allegedly leaked sensitive financial information obtained while acting as a UK trade envoy to Epstein. However, police have clarified that their investigation will encompass all aspects of MIPO based on the evidence they receive.
A source expressed concern that the public may believe the investigation is solely focused on financial criminality, but this “couldn't be further from the truth.” They added: “Misconduct in public office covers many others, including sex offences, fraud, corruption, perverting the course of justice and others. We have a much broader view. We are investigating all aspects and we will go where the evidence leads us.”
TVP officers issued an appeal to a woman who claims to have been sent to the UK by Epstein for a “sexual encounter” with the former prince in 2010, urging her to come forward. “In terms of Epstein victims and survivors, we hope that anyone with relevant information will come forward, and I really want to stress that our door is open,” said Oliver Wright, assistant chief constable for crime and criminal justice at TVP.
What Happens Next?
Officers have noted that because MIPO is a “crime that can take many different forms,” their investigation is “complex” and potentially lengthy. To pursue a prosecution, detectives must be confident they can prove three elements: that the suspect was in a public office; that the suspect engaged in misconduct; and that the alleged misconduct was directly linked to their position in public office.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) guidelines state there is “no simple definition” of public office, and each case must be assessed individually. An act of misconduct does not need to amount to a criminal offence to be considered, but any act could be pursued via a separate investigation if deemed relevant.
Police have said they continue to assess all evidence received and stressed they want to hear from anyone with relevant information. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: “Our misconduct in public office investigation is continuing. Misconduct in public office is a crime that can take different forms, making this a complex investigation. Our team of very experienced detectives are working meticulously through a significant amount of information that has come in from the public and other sources. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation into all reasonable lines of enquiry, wherever they may lead. We encourage anyone with information to get in touch with us through the normal non-urgent contact channels, such as the Thames Valley Police online portal. I understand the high level of interest in this work, but please be patient as we continue to actively progress our investigation. We will provide further updates to the public and media when appropriate.”
