Former Prince Andrew Arrested in Epstein-Linked Misconduct Probe

Former Prince Andrew has been arrested and released under investigation on suspicion of misconduct in public office, related to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest, made by Thames Valley Police, centers on allegations that he shared confidential government documents with Epstein in 2010 .

Investigation Details

Thames Valley Police are investigating claims that Andrew, whereas serving as the UK’s trade envoy, passed sensitive information to Jeffrey Epstein. These claims emerged from recently released documents related to the U.S. Investigation into Epstein .

Arrest and Release

The former prince was arrested at the Sandringham Estate on Thursday and held for approximately 11 hours. He was subsequently released under investigation. Police searched properties linked to Andrew, including the Sandringham Estate and Royal Lodge in Windsor .

Royal Family Response

King Charles III expressed “deepest concern” over his brother’s arrest, stating that the matter should be investigated through a “full, fair and proper process” by the appropriate authorities .

Previous Allegations and Context

This arrest follows years of allegations concerning Andrew’s links to Epstein, who died by suicide in a New York prison in 2019. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with his friendship with Epstein. The allegations being investigated are separate from those made by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed she was trafficked to Britain and sexually abused by Andrew. Giuffre died by suicide last year .

Ongoing Searches

As of February 20, 2026, Thames Valley Police continue to search properties linked to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor .