Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor investigated over 'sexual misconduct' as police share new details

Detectives investigating Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor are examining allegations of sexual misconduct as part of their inquiry into potential misconduct in public office.

The offence covers a broad range of conduct under UK law, including sharing confidential financial information, financial misconduct, wilful neglect of duty, sexual misconduct, corruption, improper interference, conflicts of interest, perverting the course of justice, dishonesty, fraudulent conduct, and misconduct for personal gain.

Detectives at Thames Valley Police are understood to be concerned that the public believes the investigation is focused solely on claims that the former prince shared information while serving as a trade envoy.

In reality, the scope of the alleged offence is far wider.

Andrew served as the UK’s special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011. He stepped down following controversy surrounding his friendship with convicted paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

It's part of the inquiry into potential misconduct in public office (Steve Parsons - WPA Pool/Getty Images)

Andrew has denied wrongdoing relating to his links with the convicted sex offender.

The major investigation by Thames Valley Police is expected to be lengthy. One challenge will be determining whether Andrew legally held a public office at the time of the alleged offences, as the definition is not clearly established in law.

However, it is understood that even if investigators conclude he did not hold public office, the force would continue examining evidence of any separate offences.

A team of experienced detectives is working on the case and remains in regular contact with prosecutors for legal guidance.

Officers are currently assessing claims by a woman who alleges that Epstein sent her to Royal Lodge in 2010 for sex with Andrew, before she was later given a tour of Buckingham Palace.

Police have contacted the woman’s lawyer, Brad Edwards, who first spoke to the BBC about allegations said to have taken place when she was in her 20s.

The force said: "We have engaged with the woman’s legal representative to confirm that, should she wish to report this to police, it will be taken seriously and handled with care, sensitivity and respect for her privacy and her right for anonymity.

Andrew has denied wrongdoing relating to his links with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein (Max Mumby/Indigo / Contributor / Getty Images)

"We recognise how difficult it can be to speak about experiences of this nature, and any contact with police will be led by her wishes, when and if she feels ready and able to do so."

Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office earlier this year (19 February). He was interviewed under caution before being released under investigation.

Searches were also carried out at his former homes in Windsor and Norfolk, with detectives understood to be reviewing evidence recovered during those searches.

Police have also made a formal request to the United States Department of Justice for the original Epstein files, but no material has yet been provided.

Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office earlier this year (JUSTIN TALLIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: "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 inquiry, 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."

Tyla has reached out to Buckingham Palace for comment.