Andrew Mountbatten-Windor’s 66th birthday has been marred somewhat by his arrest at the hands of Thames Valley Police.
The former prince was taken into custody earlier today (February 19) under suspicion of misconduct in public office, with authorities still searching his home in Norfolk. At least six unmarked police cars were seen driving into Wood Farm in Sandringham at around 8am this morning. Eight men, believed to be plain-clothed officers, were then seen going into the property with what appeared to be laptops.
Not a great birthday then, for the former prince. It is unclear whether or not the bloke 8th in line for the throne knew whether cops were on their way to rain on his birthday parade.
Although it’s pretty certain that his 66th birthday ranks among his worst, there have been some happier occasions for the former prince. Pictures from the 90s and noughties show a contented Andrew celebrating with his young family.
One picture from 1998 shows Andrew mucking around with his wife Sarah Ferguson and his two kids Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie in front of some mountains in Verbier, Switzerland. The former prince has a carefree look in his eyes, glinting like someone who couldn’t possibly imagine the events of this morning unfolding.
Andrew has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing and any accusations pointed at him.
Other photos – all in Verbier – show Andrew sitting around with his family in 1999 and 2003 respectively. One snap shows Andrew blowing out the candles of his cake while his kids look on.
Andrew’s brother King Charles III issued an extraordinary statement following Andrew’s arrest. He said: “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.”
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”