Former Prince Andrew Arrested in Epstein‑Linked Misconduct Probe

In a surprising development, ex-Prince of Britain Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested by police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police officials were spotted at Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence in Sandringham at around 8 a.m. on February 19. King Charles expressed his “deepest concern” after the news of the arrest became public.

Thames Valley Police said in an official report that they 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.

“We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court,” the police said.

“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright noted.

“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.”

Authorities did not disclose details of their investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor, but U.S. Justice Department documents suggest they may be examining whether he shared confidential government documents with Jeffrey Epstein.

Mountbatten-Windsor remains in police custody at this time.

Mountbatten-Windsor is the third child and second son of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and a younger brother of King Charles III. Andrew was born second in the line of succession to the British throne and is eighth as of 2026.

Andrew’s long-standing ties to Jeffrey Epstein drew widespread criticism. In 2014, Virginia Giuffre alleged she was trafficked to him; Andrew denied wrongdoing and settled a U.S. civil lawsuit in 2022 without admitting liability. That year, Elizabeth II stripped him of military roles and patronages, and he stopped using “Royal Highness.” In 2025, Charles III removed his remaining styles and honors and limited his titles, prompting Andrew to leave Royal Lodge for private accommodation on the Sandringham estate.

In an official statement, King Charles III said he was deeply concerned about the news and urged the authorities to conduct a fair investigation.

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” he said.

“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities,” he added, as per CNBC.

“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter,” Charles said, adding that the Royal family will provide full cooperation in the matter.