King Charles moved quickly to distance himself from his brother Prince Andrew on Thursday. His statement expressed full support for authorities and said, “the law must take its course.”

Hours earlier, police arrested Andrew at Sandringham, the royal estate north of London. Investigators said he remains under review for misconduct in public office.

Importantly, Charles did not call Andrew his brother. Instead, he reaffirmed the royal family’s commitment to duty and public service. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, backed the statement, showing a united front.

Charles’ approach contrasts with that of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. She reportedly favored Andrew and delayed holding him accountable for his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. She also allowed his 2019 BBC interview at Buckingham Palace, which drew widespread criticism.

Andrew settled a civil sexual assault case brought by Virginia Giuffre in 2021, though he denied all allegations. Still, Charles acted decisively after ascending the throne in 2022. He stripped Andrew of his “prince” status and evicted him from royal residences in October.

Royal sources said neither Charles nor the palace received prior warning of Andrew’s arrest. Police arriving on Andrew’s 66th birthday stunned the family.

Historians note that Charles and Andrew never grew very close due to their 11-year age gap. They bonded more in the 1980s during their marriages to Diana and Sarah Ferguson, when their families were friendly.

Royal historian Kate Williams said the family now faces a huge problem and must publicly separate from Andrew. She predicts the public will demand more accountability from Charles and William.

Commentator Sandro Monetti warned the Andrew controversy may define Charles’ reign. Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne, and Parliament may consider changing the succession.

Overall, the royal family faces its most serious crisis since Princess Diana’s death. The situation raises urgent questions about transparency, accountability, and the monarchy’s future stability.

The King’s swift response demonstrates his intent to prioritize duty to the country above family loyalty. Andrew has not publicly addressed the latest allegations.