King Charles, Prince William Were Not Warned Ahead of Ex-Prince Andrew’s Arrest

King Charles III and his son Prince William were not given any notice of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest before it happened Thursday morning.

The former Duke of York was arrested at his residence on the Sandringham Estate on Thursday, February 19, which is also his 66th birthday. William, known as the Prince of Wales, and King Charles, 77, had no prior knowledge ahead of time, Page Six reported.

The former Prince Andrew was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. His older brother Charles, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, swiftly issued a statement via Buckingham Palace, saying, “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.”

“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities,” the king continued. “In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.”

“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” Charles concluded. “As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”

Andrew is the third child of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who stripped him of his military titles and patronages before her death in September 2022. His siblings include King Charles III, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward.

The former Duke of York is accused of forwarding confidential trade documents to the late convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew faces a maximum penalty of life in prison if convicted.

William and his wife, Princess Kate, have yet to release a public statement regarding Andrew’s arrest.

Just one day before his uncle’s arrest, William appeared on BBC Radio1 for a conversation on suicide prevention, according to the Kensington Royal account on X.