Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is being investigated by police for potential sexual offences.
The details emerged as police gave an update on their criminal investigation into misconduct in public office involving the King’s younger brother.
The former prince was sensationally arrested in February, on his birthday, and questioned for 12 hours in a police station.
He was taken into custody in Norfolk after detectives had surprised him at breakfast time and made the arrest on suspicion of the offence of misconduct in public office.
It followed weeks of revelations about Andrew’s friendship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, with whom he was alleged to have shared sensitive information, while in post as trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
Misconduct in public office, an offence which carries a maximum punishment of life in prison, is not limited to fraud or financial gain.
The offence concerns serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held.
The Crown Prosecution Service clearly states that “the offence can take a wide range of forms” and that includes cases “involving abuse of position for a sexual purpose”.
ITV News understands that the Andrew investigation does fall into this category.
Since Mr Mountabatten-Windsor was “released under investigation”, there have been no developments in the case, although police did carry out extensive searches of his home on the Sandringham estate and his former home, Royal Lodge, on the Windsor Estate.
Material recovered during those searches is still being worked through.
Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Our team of very experienced detectives are working meticulously through a significant amount of information that has come in from the public and other sources. We are committed to conducting a thorough investigation into all reasonable lines of enquiry, wherever they may lead.”
Those in charge of this investigation have also confirmed they are in touch with the US Department of Justice, which released three million Epstein files earlier this year.
But they declined to reveal what, if any, new information they had been given from Washington.
Officers have also been speaking to “a number of witnesses”, but their identities have not been revealed.
All the while, the force has been liaising with the Crown Prosecution Service as they assess all the information in what they call a “serious, complex” case.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Our misconduct in public office investigation is continuing. Misconduct in public office is a crime that can take different forms, making this a complex investigation.”
Prince Andrew has always strenuously denied any wrongdoing in relation to all the allegations made against him.
On the day of his arrest in February, the King released a written statement which 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.
“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.”
It is not thought that Buckingham Palace will respond to this latest update.
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