Expert explains how long Andrew Mountbatten-Winsdor can be held for following arrest on his birthday

A policing expert has weighed in on how long Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor might be held following his arrest.

Officers arrested the former Duke of York at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate today, his 66th birthday, where he had been living since leaving the Royal Lodge in Windsor.

The arrest today, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, comes after allegations were made against Andrew following the release of a collection of files relating to Jeffrey Epstein, the late American financier who was indicted for sex trafficking. Epstein’s friendship with the former prince has long been a controversial point of discussion.

Andrew has vehemently denied all accusations against him in relation to Epstein.

Andrew was arrested on his birthday (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

Thames Valley police said in a statement: “We have today (19/2) arrested a man in his 60s from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.

“The man remains in police custody at this time.”

A policing commenter shed light on how long the former prince may be held for. The absolute longest time is 96 hours, but this, however, would require multiple extensions from senior police officers and a Magistrate’s Court.

Suspects are usually held for 12 or 24 hours and are either charged or released pending further investigation, Shaw told BBC Radio 5 Live.

Andrew will be placed in ‘a cell in a custody suite’ with just ‘a bed and a toilet’ where he will wait for his police interview. Shaw said Andrew will not receive ‘special treatment’ during this time.

Following the news of Andrew’s arrest, King Charles issued a statement.

It begins: "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."

An experts have revealed how long Andrew could be held (Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images)

"In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation," King Charles continued.

"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. Charles R."

Sir Keir Starmer, the UK's prime minister, recently urged Andrew to speak with authorities in both the UK and US regarding Epstein.

He told the BBC that 'anybody who has any information should testify', which would also include Andrew. His friendship with Epstein dates back to 1999, when he was introduced to the late financier by Ghislaine Maxwell. She was convicted of child sex crimes in 2021, but Andrew's connection came under intense public scrutiny in 2019, after a disastrous Newsnight interview that questioned his relationship with Virginia Giuffre, who was one of Epstein's most prominent accusers until her death last year.