Prince Andrew Arrested on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office
Instead of a birthday celebration, police detained Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, on Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday at his country estate in Sandringham, Norfolk.
Details of the Arrest
A convoy of unmarked police cars arrived at Sandringham around 8:00 AM, leading to Andrew’s detention. He had recently been residing at the estate after documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice in the Jeffrey Epstein case revealed a close relationship with the convicted sex offender. These files indicated that Andrew not only met with young women provided by Epstein but also potentially shared sensitive business information that could have financially benefited Epstein even as Andrew served as a UK trade representative. Source
Police are conducting searches at addresses linked to Andrew, including the Windsor estate where he previously lived for over 20 years. Source
King Charles’ Response
King Charles III issued a statement expressing his “deepest concern” over the arrest. He affirmed the importance of due process and pledged his full support to the investigation. The King stated, “The law must take its course.” Source
According to reports, neither the King nor Buckingham Palace was informed in advance of the arrest. The Prince and Princess of Wales have also expressed their support for the King’s statement. Source
Investigation and Detention
Thames Valley Police is investigating allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Jeffrey Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew, and claims that Andrew shared sensitive information with Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy. Source
Police commentator Danny Shaw reported that Andrew will be treated like any other prisoner, being placed in a standard cell with basic amenities. He could be held for up to 96 hours. Source
Previous Allegations and Settlement
Andrew has denied any wrongdoing, but previously reached an out-of-court settlement with one of Epstein’s accusers who alleged she had been sexually abused by him. Files suggest Epstein facilitated encounters between Andrew and other young women, some of which reportedly took place at Buckingham Palace. Source