Former Prince Andrew Arrested Over Suspected Misconduct in Public Office

London – Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, was arrested on Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest follows revelations stemming from the Jeffrey Epstein files and occurred on his 66th birthday [CBS News]. King Charles III has expressed his concern and affirmed the investigation will have the “full and wholehearted support and co-operation” of the royal family [TIME].

Investigation Details

The Thames Valley Police force initiated the investigation after assessing claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government information with the late Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a British trade envoy [CBS News]. Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk and conducted searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk [CBS News].

Six unmarked police vehicles were observed arriving at Wood Farm, Andrew’s residence on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, shortly after 8 a.m. Local time. Police similarly searched Royal Lodge, his former residence on the Windsor estate [CBS News].

Release and Ongoing Investigation

Following questioning, Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation, meaning he is free to go without restrictions while the investigation continues [CBS News], [TIME]. Searches in Norfolk have concluded, but those in Berkshire are still underway [TIME].

King Charles’ Response

King Charles III issued a statement expressing his “deepest concern” over the arrest. He emphasized the importance of a “full, fair and proper” investigation and affirmed that the law must take its course [TIME], [NBC News]. He stated his family would continue their duties while the investigation proceeds [NBC News].

Additional Allegations

Police are also reviewing a separate allegation that Epstein sent a woman to Andrew at the Royal Lodge residence in Windsor in 2010 [TIME].