Within the released documents, Andrew’s name reportedly appeared hundreds of times, including in private correspondence and photographs. One particularly controversial image showed him crouched on all fours over an unidentified woman.
However, it is important to stress that being named or pictured in the files does not in itself indicate wrongdoing.
The father-of-two has also been accused of passing sensitive information to Epstein — who died by suicide in 2019 — during his time as the UK’s trade envoy. It is this allegation that has led to Andrew’s reported arrest.
What is misconduct in public office?
According to the Institute For Government, misconduct in public office refers to an offence involving the abuse or neglect of powers or responsibilities by someone holding public office.
The offence can apply to individuals in government or public sector positions, including elected officials, civil servants, members of the police and judiciary, and working members of the Royal Family. In the most serious cases, it carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.