Buckingham Palace has clarified that the British public will not cover legal costs for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor following his recent arrest. The senior royal, the first in modern history to face such detention, spent about 11 hours in custody before Thames Valley Police released him under investigation.
Arrest Circumstances
Authorities arrested Andrew on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The action stems from allegations tied to documents about financier Jeffrey Epstein. The detention occurred on his 66th birthday, linked to claims he shared confidential information with Epstein during his tenure as UK trade envoy.
Emails from the US Department of Justice appear to show Andrew passing reports on official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore. Witnesses observed him looking exhausted and slouched in a car as he left Aylsham police station in Norfolk that Thursday evening. He then returned to Sandringham, his vehicle passing reporters at speed.
Legal Funding Position
Palace officials confirm taxpayers face no financial burden for Andrew’s defense. Sources indicate that if he cannot cover his own representation, the costs will not draw from public funds. King Charles will not contribute personally, though the funding source remains unclear.
Potential Legal Team
Criminal defense solicitor Gary Bloxsome, hired by Andrew in 2020 amid an FBI probe into his Epstein ties, stands as a likely choice. Described as an “inspired hire,” Bloxsome remains supportive despite others distancing themselves. A source noted: “Who else would he possibly call on? He’s a criminal lawyer. This is Gary’s speciality; there is no better man for the job. It wouldn’t make any sense to go anywhere else. He knows all the history and they have a good relationship.”
Bloxsome recently visited Royal Lodge before Andrew’s move to Norfolk three weeks prior.
Royal Response
Neither King Charles nor Buckingham Palace received prior notice of the arrest. At midday, Charles issued a statement: “The police have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”
Andrew denies any wrongdoing related to Epstein but has not addressed these specific allegations.
