Authorities are investigating whether Andrew shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while acting as U.K. trade envoy

Ghislaine Maxwell, left, and the former Prince Andrew.Credit : Sylvain Gaboury/Patrick McMullan via Getty; Mark Cuthbert/UK Press via Getty

The family of convicted sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell expressed shock at the arrest of the former Prince Andrew, who was detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office amid an investigation related to alleged communications with Jeffrey Epstein.

Andrew was released from custody following his arrest on Thursday, Feb. 19. He has not been charged with a crime, but police are investigating an accusation that he shared confidential information with Epstein while Andrew was serving as a U.K. trade envoy.

The arrest was not connected to any allegation of sexual misconduct, and Andrew has previously denied any wrongdoing in connection with his ties to Epstein.

In a post on X, the family of Ghislaine Maxwell said they were astonished by the arrest of the former Duke of York.

“Astonished to see Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested today over alleged misconduct in public office linked to material from the so‑called Epstein ‘Files,’” the post said. “He is entitled to the presumption of innocence and a fair process – which our sister Ghislaine never received. We need transparency, evidence, and the same rules for everyone – not trial by media and political expediency.”

Maxwell, whom a jury found to be Epstein’s longtime co-conspirator, is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence after she was convicted of sex trafficking.

Andrew was taken into custody on the day of his 66th birthday while at his new home on his brother King Charles’ Sandringham estate in Norfolk. He was released approximately 11 hours later.

Police said they were also searching Andrew’s former home in Windsor.

Following his brother’s arrest, King Charles issued a statement in response.

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” Charles said. “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,” he continued. “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”