Ex-Prince Andrew is facing renewed scrutiny after reports surfaced that he viewed himself as the wronged party in the weeks leading up to his arrest, connected to Jeffrey Epstein.
Royal historian Andrew Lownie told Page Six that the former duke struggled to fully understand the seriousness of the allegations surrounding him.
“Andrew doesn’t know what the problem is,” Lownie said. “He believes he’s been hard done by. In his mind, he’s a victim and feels persecuted.”
Lownie added that Andrew has long avoided accountability and “has never really been disciplined.”
Andrew, 66, was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office after authorities alleged he shared confidential trade information with Epstein while serving as the U.K.’s special representative for international trade. Investigators are also examining separate allegations tied to Epstein’s trafficking network, which Andrew has repeatedly denied.
The arrest, which took place at Andrew’s Norfolk residence on his birthday, sent shockwaves through the royal family.
King Charles III addressed the situation in a statement released by Buckingham Palace, calling the allegations “deeply concerning.”
“The law must take its course,” the monarch said, adding that the matter would be handled by the appropriate authorities and that it would be improper to comment further while the investigation continues.
Andrew, who stepped back from royal duties years ago, has maintained his innocence. Authorities have not disclosed when a charging decision may be made as the investigation remains ongoing.