Andrew’s arrest ‘catastrophic’ for Beatrice and Eugenie as princesses left ‘in a state’
Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are said to be devastated after their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on his 66th birthday over allegations of misconduct in public office
Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice with then-Prince Andrew in 2013(Image: UK Press via Getty Images)
Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are said to be “in a state” after their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew)’s shock arrest on his 66th birthday, sources say. Insiders have also claimed the bombshell will be “catastrophic” for the sisters and their mother, Sarah Ferguson.
One of the princesses is believed to be with mum Fergie, but the Duchess herself is reportedly keeping a low profile. She is allegedly hiding out either in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or with her sister in Australia.
Moreover, a source told The Telegraph that the “curse” of Epstein has struck again, but Fergie is “doing her best to put a brave face on”.
Andrew’s ex-wife, 66, reportedly fled the country shortly after he was forced out of Royal Lodge. She has yet to respond to the release of emails in the Epstein files suggesting she repeatedly asked the disgraced financier for cash.
Furthermore, Andrew’s arrest will be a huge blow for Beatrice and Eugenie, and their mum Fergie, The Sun reported.
He was quizzed by cops on Thursday after police raided his homes at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate and Royal Lodge in Windsor. Authorities seized files and devices as part of a probe into alleged misconduct in public office, the Daily Star previously reported.
The former Duke of York, who once served as the UK’s trade envoy, is accused of sharing confidential government reports with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. This rare charge, defined as the serious abuse or neglect of public office, could see Andrew facing life in prison if convicted.
With investigators now combing through years of documents, the King himself could be drawn into the case if Andrew claims he acted with royal knowledge. Misconduct in public office is a complex and often ambiguous area of British law, defined by the Crown Prosecution Service as the “serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held”.
Traditionally, this offence has applied to figures such as police officers, prison staff, judges, and bishops. However, the recent arrest of Andrew has raised questions about whether members of the royal family can also fall under this definition, since there is no strict legal list of who qualifies as a public office holder.
Each case of alleged misconduct in public office is judged individually, considering the position’s responsibilities and level of public trust. Although Andrew’s role as UK trade envoy was unpaid and appointed by the late Queen, legal experts say it may still qualify as public office.
If the case progresses, complex constitutional issues could arise, especially if Andrew claims King Charles was aware of his actions. While only the King has sovereign immunity, this could create a legal paradox if the monarch is called as a witness, challenging centuries of precedent.
Penalties for misconduct in public office can be severe, but recent sentences have varied widely. Police may spend months reviewing evidence, and the investigation could expand to include other allegations linked to Epstein.
Andrew has vehemently and repeatedly denied any wrongdoing.
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