Police Investigate Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Over Alleged Misconduct in Public Office

Thames Valley Police are conducting an extensive investigation into Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, following allegations of misconduct in public office, including claims of sexual misconduct, fraud, and the improper sharing of confidential information. The probe, described as “unprecedented,” has expanded beyond initial suspicions related to his ties to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Background of the Investigation

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, was arrested and questioned under criminal caution in February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office, allegedly linked to his role as a British trade envoy. The allegations stem from documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice, which claim he passed confidential information to Epstein. The former prince has denied all wrongdoing.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police (TVP) emphasized the complexity of the case, stating that misconduct in public office encompasses a range of offenses, including sexual misconduct, fraud, and perverting the course of justice. “Our team of experienced detectives is meticulously reviewing a significant amount of information from the public and other sources,” Wright said.

Scope of the Probe

The investigation includes examining claims of sexual misconduct, with police considering a report from a woman who alleges she was taken to a Windsor address in 2010 for sexual purposes. Detectives have contacted her through her lawyer, assuring her that any report would be handled with sensitivity and respect for her privacy.

Police are also seeking documents and witness accounts related to Mountbatten-Windsor’s role as a trade envoy, including expectations of behavior and ethics. The Metropolitan Police, which previously declined to investigate claims against the prince, is being consulted. The TVP investigation involves detectives with expertise in sexual offenses.

Challenges and Delays

A key challenge for investigators is obtaining the original Epstein documents, which are crucial to the case. Currently, UK police only have printouts from the U.S. Department of Justice website. U.S. Authorities have refused to provide the originals, requiring a formal international legal request that could take months.

The investigation is expected to be lengthy, with no criminal trial anticipated before 2027 if evidence warrants charges. Three British police forces are conducting full criminal investigations tied to Epstein-related revelations, while others assess claims about flights linked to the financier.

Broader Implications

The case has drawn attention to the legal frameworks governing public officials. Police have engaged with the Crown Prosecution Service to determine if charges can be authorized. Notably, the Met is also investigating Peter Mandelson for misconduct in public office, and Surrey Police are examining historic child sexual abuse claims from the Epstein files.

Following Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest, police conducted searches of his Norfolk home and the Windsor estate. Materials seized are still under examination, with a focus on proving that his role as a trade envoy falls under misconduct in public office regulations.

Public Appeal for Information

TVP has urged witnesses to come forward, clarifying that the investigation is not limited to the alleged Epstein-related misconduct. “We encourage anyone with information to contact us through the normal non-urgent channels,” Wright said. The force emphasized that the probe is “thorough” and “comprehensive,” with no timeline for completion.

As the investigation unfolds, it remains a focal point of public and legal scrutiny, highlighting the complexities of holding public figures accountable for alleged misconduct.