Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested Amid Epstein Revelations
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested at his home in Sandringham on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following revelations about his relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the Financial Times reported. The arrest, the first of a member of the British royal family in modern times, prompted King Charles to issue a statement expressing concern and pledging co-operation with the investigation.
King Charles’ Response
King Charles stated his “deepest concern” regarding his brother’s alleged misconduct in public office and affirmed his full support for the investigation. He emphasized that “the law must take its course,” according to the Financial Times.
Investigation Details
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was subsequently released under investigation. Searches concluded at Sandringham but continued at Mountbatten-Windsor’s former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park.
Background: Mountbatten-Windsor and Epstein
Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly a working royal, relinquished his responsibilities in 2019 due to his connections with Epstein. He served as a special representative for UK trade and investment from 2001 to 2011. The police action followed an assessment of evidence related to potential misconduct in public office and possible trafficking of a young woman for sexual purposes in 2010.
Recent Document Releases
The investigation gained momentum following the release of millions of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein by the US Department of Justice. These documents revealed frequent contact between Mountbatten-Windsor and Epstein, both socially and in business dealings, often involving young women.
The files also showed Mountbatten-Windsor advocating for Epstein during a state visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2010 and attempting to broker a financial deal involving China and the UAE. The documents indicated that he shared confidential information obtained through his trade role with Epstein, and associates.
Notably, the released files included an image of Mountbatten-Windsor in a compromising position with a young woman.
Mountbatten-Windsor’s Response
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any financial or sexual wrongdoing related to his association with Epstein and his network.
Other Investigations
This investigation is the second in the UK prompted by the Epstein revelations. London’s Metropolitan Police also recently investigated Lord Peter Mandelson for potential misconduct in public office, though he has denied any wrongdoing.
Previous Correspondence
Newly released documents from Epstein’s estate revealed that Mountbatten-Windsor pleaded with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell to clarify he had no involvement in the allegations against him in 2011. He repeatedly requested they state he knew nothing about the accusations.
In an email, Mountbatten-Windsor wrote, “I can’t take any more of this my complete.”