A member of Duchess Kate’s extended family was arrested recently on suspicion of raping a minor about 20 years ago.

According to USA Today, 74-year-old David Matthews was arrested in France this week in connection with the alleged crimes between 1998 and 1999.

Matthews is Pippa Middleton’s father-in-law. Middleton’s sister is a member of the British royal family married to Prince William, the duke of Cambridge and expected heir to the throne.

British news sources indicate the suspect was at Orly Airport in Paris when the local police agency’s specialized team detained and questioned him on Tuesday. He has reportedly denied the allegations.

The suspect has built a reputation apart from his association with royalty, amassing a fortune as a real estate developer after a career as an auto racer and car dealer.

He is known for the extensive renovations he performed on the Eden Roc Hotel on St. Barths, which went on to become a popular celebrity hangout. That resort was hit hard last year when Hurricane Irma struck the Caribbean island.

Matthews’ son, 42-year-old James, married 34-year-old Middleton in a royalty-studded event just under a year ago.

The Telegraph cited a judicial official in Paris who confirmed Matthews has been released since his arrest dand is not being ordered to remain in France.

“The investigations will now continue as a judicial investigation and will be led by an investigating judge,” the unnamed source said.

Initial media requests for a comment from representatives of the duke and duchess were not immediately answered.

As E! News reported, a source speaking on the suspect’s behalf said that Matthews “categorically denies the allegation and unequivocally contests the untrue and scandalous accusation.”

[Featured image: David Matthews/Associated Press]