Police Expand Andrew Probe As Witness Appeal Issued

Police Expand Andrew Probe As Witness Appeal Issued

Police investigating Prince Andrew have issued a public appeal for witnesses to come forward as detectives widen an unprecedented inquiry into alleged misconduct linked to the king’s brother.

Thames Valley Police said investigators are examining claims involving possible sexual misconduct, corruption, fraud and the alleged sharing of confidential information during Andrew’s time as a British trade envoy.

The former royal, referred to in legal documents as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested and questioned under criminal caution in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He denies all wrongdoing.

Detectives Believe More Witnesses Exist

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said officers were already assessing a “significant amount” of information from witnesses and other sources.

But police believe additional witnesses may still be out there who wrongly assume detectives are investigating only one narrow allegation linked to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Investigators stressed that misconduct in public office can cover a wide range of alleged offences, including sexual misconduct, corruption, neglect of duty and dishonest conduct.

“We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation into all reasonable lines of inquiry, wherever they may lead,” Wright said.

Police urged anyone with relevant information to contact the force through non-emergency reporting channels.

Claims Linked To Epstein Files

The investigation follows revelations contained in documents released by the US Department of Justice connected to Epstein.

Detectives are reportedly attempting to obtain original materials from US authorities, believing they could prove “hugely important” to the inquiry.

British police currently only possess publicly released printouts of the documents, while US officials have reportedly insisted any further evidence requests must go through formal international legal channels.

That process could take months.

Sexual Misconduct Allegation Also Assessed

The inquiry also includes detectives specialising in sexual offences.

Police confirmed they are assessing a claim from a US-based woman who alleges she was taken to an address in Windsor in 2010 for sexual purposes.

The matter has not yet become a full criminal investigation, but officers have contacted the woman through her lawyer.

Wright said any potential victim would be treated with “care, sensitivity and respect for her privacy.”

Royal Household And Government Departments Drawn In

Investigators are expected to seek information from the royal household and multiple government departments connected to Andrew’s former role as trade envoy.

Police are examining whether the position legally falls under misconduct in public office rules — a key issue for any future prosecution.

The force is also expected to request material from Metropolitan Police, which previously reviewed allegations involving Andrew but twice declined to launch a criminal investigation.

Long Investigation Looms

Detectives reportedly searched Andrew’s Norfolk home and conducted a week-long search of the Windsor estate following his arrest earlier this year.

Any criminal trial, should charges eventually emerge, is not expected before 2027.

The investigation marks one of the most politically explosive royal-linked police inquiries in modern British history, with multiple UK forces now examining allegations connected to Epstein’s international network.

SOURCE