Former Prince Andrew is grappling with increasing anxiety as he faces mounting financial pressures after being released pending investigation by Thames Valley police. The former royal has remained out of public sight since his arrest last month, which was prompted by allegations of misconduct in a public office.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who cooperated during his 11-hour interview, has not been informed if he will be called back for further questioning. According to sources from the Mirror and royal insiders, Andrew is deeply concerned about the financial burden associated with attending interviews and seeking legal advice.
The King Charles III made it clear that as a private citizen, Andrew now bears all costs himself, including his legal fees. This stance has both supporters and critics within the royal family, given that public funds should not be used to support him under any circumstances.
A source noted: “Much like how the King has offered Andrew a place on his estate in Norfolk for temporary accommodation, if Andrew cannot afford his legal fees, there’s a possibility he could be asked to pay privately. This scenario would present an uncomfortable challenge for the King.”
Andrew’s arrest by Thames Valley police on February 19 — his 66th birthday and just days after millions of files were released regarding the Jeffrey Epstein scandal — marked the first time in nearly four centuries that a senior royal had been arrested. Prior to this, only King Charles I was taken prisoner during the English Civil War.
Before being freed from questioning at Aylsham police station, Andrew was seen slumped in the back seat of a Range Rover as he left the station. Sources within the palace expressed concern over public sentiment towards Andrew should the King be forced to cover his legal costs himself.
A senior palace source observed: “The King is steadfast in refusing any use of public funds for Andrew’s legal fees, but if such costs are borne privately by him, there’s a risk that the public reaction would not be favorable. It represents quite a delicate situation.”
Previously, King Charles III stripped Prince Andrew of his titles and honors in October 2025 due to ongoing allegations involving his brother. His Majesty also evicted him from the Royal Lodge mansion at Windsor Castle.