In a dramatic development on 19 February 2026, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested by Thames Valley Police at his residence on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, eastern England.
The 66-year-old was taken into custody early on Thursday morning on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a serious offence that carries significant legal consequences if proven. Officers in plain clothes and unmarked vehicles were seen at Wood Farm, the property where he has been living on the estate.
The arrest is part of a broader police investigation into allegations tied to Andrew’s former role as a UK trade envoy. Authorities have been reviewing claims that he may have shared confidential government information with the late Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced American financier and convicted sex offender. Documents recently unsealed by US authorities and circulating in the so-called “Epstein files” have intensified scrutiny on his conduct during official missions abroad.
Police have also previously examined assertions that Epstein may have trafficked a woman to the UK for an encounter involving Andrew, although law enforcement has not detailed the status of those specific claims.
Thames Valley Police have confirmed that searches are underway at properties in both Norfolk and Berkshire as part of their inquiries. Officers have stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the investigation as the case progresses.
“As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk,” Thames Valley Police said in a statement.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Andrew is the younger brother of King Charles III. In recent years, he has been at the centre of public controversy over his association with Epstein and related allegations, which he has consistently denied.
In 2019, he stepped back from public duties amid intense media scrutiny, and in 2025, the King formally removed his remaining royal titles and honours. Since then, he has been living privately on the Sandringham estate after relinquishing the lease on his former residence at Royal Lodge.
The arrest has drawn widespread attention in the UK and abroad. Senior figures, including political leaders and legal commentators, have underscored the principle that “nobody is above the law,” reflecting the high degree of public interest in the case.
At this stage, Andrew remains in police custody while enquiries continue and further details are expected to emerge as the investigation unfolds.
Photo: X/@piersmorgan
Tomasz Modrzejewski
