The family are said to be very worried about what could happen next after the disgraced royal’s arrest. The Spectator’s Tim Shipman reported: “‘The Palace is terrified’ about what could potentially happen, my man with his snout in the royal rosebushes informs me.”
The writer added: “They would like to see him tried and convicted and sent to prison, or tried and cleared, because that would at least draw a line under things.’ This is fairly extraordinary.”
A source close to the royal household added: “There’s a deep concern being voiced around Whitehall that the stuff we have seen so far is about civilian and political decisions, but we know they’re still trawling and there could be a military dimension. The sheer scale of what might emerge is enormous.”
Andrew has been residing at the Sandringham estate since earlier this month, with his move taking place following his eviction from his former home in Windsor, 30-room Royal Lodge.
His relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein came under renewed scrutiny earlier this year when the US Department of Justice released three million documents relating to the disgraced financier.
After his arrest on Thursday, Thames Valley Police, who did not name Andrew, said in a statement on Thursday morning: “As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk…”
They also added: “Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
Within hours of his arrest, King Charles released a statement, which read: “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. 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.
“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.”