Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew and brother of King Charles III, was arrested on February 19, 2026, at the Sandringham estate.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Officers also searched properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the investigation.
The arrest coincided with Andrew’s 66th birthday, marking the first time a senior royal has faced such legal action in modern history. Prime Minister Keir Starmer reacted by stating that “nobody is above the law.”
Investigators are examining allegations that Andrew shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy. Newly surfaced emails from 2010 suggest Epstein coordinated meetings with Andrew, including plans at Buckingham Palace. Epstein, convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor, referenced bringing multiple women to the meeting.
The US Department of Justice also released photographs linked to Epstein’s files, reportedly showing Andrew in compromising positions with an unidentified woman. While the images lack context, they have intensified scrutiny of Andrew’s past ties to Epstein.
Andrew remains in police custody as inquiries continue. The arrest has reignited public debate over his role in the royal family and his controversial associations, placing unprecedented pressure on the monarchy.
