UK police say the ongoing investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is broad and could cover alleged sexual misconduct, as they made a fresh appeal for witnesses to come forward.
The update comes about three months after the former prince was arrested at his Sandringham home in February.
While he was released shortly after, police have continued their investigation into an allegation of misconduct in public office, after the US Justice Department released files that suggested he may have allegedly shared confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In an update today, Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright told local media that misconduct in public office can cover a range of offences, including sexual misconduct and perverting the course of justice, as he appealed for fresh information from the public.
Police are reportedly concerned witnesses may believe investigators are only focusing on the allegation that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential information with Epstein.
“Misconduct in public office is a crime that can take different forms, making this a complex investigation,” Wright said.
“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 inquiry, wherever they may lead.”
Mountbatten-Windsor was appointed as the UK trade envoy in 2001, a role in which he is alleged to have committed misconduct in public office.
Wright said police were also assessing reports a woman in her 20s was taken to an address in Windsor in 2010 for sexual misconduct.
The victim-survivor alleged to the BBC that Epstein had sent her for Mountbatten-Windsor.
Wright said police are engaging with the woman’s lawyer, but she has not yet reported the offence.
Police acknowledged victim-survivors may be put off from coming forward due to the national and international focus but assured them the door is open whenever they are ready 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 whenever a victim-survivor is ready to engage with us,” Wright said.
“We’re ready for you at whatever point that may be.”
Police are working with the UK government and the US Justice Department to receive as much information as possible.
King Charles, in a statement after his younger brother’s arrest earlier this year, said police had his “full and wholehearted” support and cooperation.
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” he said at the time.
Wright said the ongoing investigation will be thorough, lengthy and complex.
NEVER MISS A STORY: Get your breaking news and exclusive stories first by following us across all platforms.
By
