Ex-Prince Andrew Arrested on 66th Birthday Amid Epstein Allegations
Former Prince Andrew, Duke of York, was arrested on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, is linked to an ongoing investigation into his dealings with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Thames Valley Police Confirms Arrest
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest in a statement, stating that a man in his sixties was taken into custody. The police have not named the individual, citing national guidance. Searches are being conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. Read the full police statement here.
Investigation Focuses on Alleged Sharing of Confidential Information
The investigation centers on allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive state information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy. Detectives are assessing claims made in recently released documents from the “Epstein files,” which suggest Andrew passed on reports related to his official visits to Singapore, Hong Kong, and Vietnam in 2010 and 2011, as well as confidential information about investment opportunities. More details on the investigation from the BBC.
Political Reaction and Calls for Transparency
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that “nobody is above the law” and stated that anyone with information related to violence against women and girls has a “duty to come forward.” Read more about the political reaction.
Background: Andrew’s Ties to Jeffrey Epstein
Pressure on Andrew has been mounting since the release of millions of pages of documents related to Jeffrey Epstein. These included disturbing photographs of Andrew and allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, a victim of Epstein, who alleged sexual assault. Andrew has consistently denied these claims.
In 2025, King Charles III formally stripped Andrew of his royal titles due to his association with Epstein and removed him from royal duties. This followed a disastrous BBC interview in 2019 where Andrew attempted to refute Giuffre’s allegations and a subsequent out-of-court settlement in 2022. While the settlement did not involve an admission of wrongdoing, Andrew acknowledged Giuffre’s suffering as a victim of sex trafficking.
Potential Detention Period
According to policing commentator Danny Shaw, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor could be held in police custody for up to 96 hours, though this would require multiple extensions from police and a magistrates’ court. Find out more about the potential detention period.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to maintain the integrity and objectivity of the process. Further updates will be provided as appropriate.