It's a catch your breath moment. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is the first senior member of the Royal Family in modern history to have been arrested.
The moment is made more dramatic by the unprecedented statement from his brother, King Charles. "Let me state clearly: the law must take its course," says the unambiguous statement from the King, offering no hiding place or protection.
The arrest, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, relates to Andrew's time as the UK's trade representative between 2001 and 2011. It follows a series of allegations, prompted by the release of the Epstein files, that Andrew shared official documents.
That included giving the sex offender Jeffrey Epstein reports from trade visits and a confidential briefing on investment in Afghanistan, and passing a Treasury briefing to a personal business contact.
Being a member of the Royal Family will make no legal difference to how his case is assessed.
