Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, former Duke of York, was arrested on Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest took place at his residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk. This development follows an ongoing police investigation linked to revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein case files.
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest and stated that a man in his 60s was taken into custody. Searches are reportedly being conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. Details regarding the specific information that led to the arrest and whether Mountbatten-Windsor has been interviewed under caution remain unclear. Norfolk Constabulary confirmed they are supporting the Thames Valley Police investigation.
Timeline of Events and Key Figures
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor marks a significant escalation in the ongoing scrutiny of his past associations.
October 2025: King Charles III stripped Mountbatten-Windsor of his royal titles, a decision made amidst years of controversy surrounding his links to Jeffrey Epstein. He was also reportedly ordered to vacate Royal Lodge.
Early February 2026: The Metropolitan Police confirmed an investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor's actions was underway.
February 19, 2026: Multiple police vehicles were observed arriving at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate, Mountbatten-Windsor's recent residence. He was subsequently arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Key individuals and entities involved include:
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor: The subject of the arrest.
Jeffrey Epstein: A convicted sex offender whose association with Mountbatten-Windsor is central to the investigation.
Thames Valley Police: The primary investigating force responsible for the arrest.
Norfolk Constabulary: Providing support to Thames Valley Police as the arrest occurred within their jurisdiction.
King Charles III: Who had previously removed Mountbatten-Windsor's royal titles.
Nature of Allegations and Police Action
The arrest centers on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Misconduct in Public Office: This legal term refers to a criminal offense committed by a public official who intentionally performs a public duty improperly, or who fails to perform a public duty, with the intent to bring about an improper result.
Epstein Files Revelations: New information surfacing from the Epstein files has reportedly indicated that Mountbatten-Windsor may have shared potentially confidential documents with Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy.
Police Actions: Thames Valley Police have confirmed the arrest and stated that the individual remains in custody. Searches are being conducted at properties connected to him.
Mountbatten-Windsor's Stance and Public Scrutiny
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing concerning his past connections.
Denial of Wrongdoing: He has repeatedly stated that he has not been involved in any illegal activities related to his associations.
Past Associations: Despite denials, photographs have emerged, including one showing him with Virginia Giuffre, whom he has previously stated he does not recall meeting.
Loss of Titles: The stripping of his royal titles by King Charles III underscores the gravity of the controversy surrounding his relationship with Epstein.
Unanswered Questions and Next Steps
Significant details surrounding the arrest are yet to be disclosed by the authorities.
Specific Information Prompting Arrest: The precise intelligence or evidence that led Thames Valley Police to make the arrest has not been publicly detailed.
Current Location and Interview Status: It is not yet confirmed where Mountbatten-Windsor is being held or if he has been formally interviewed under caution.
Scope of Investigation: The full extent of the investigation, including potential implications of the document-sharing allegations, remains to be seen.
Police have indicated that updates will be provided "at the appropriate time." The legal process will likely involve further investigations, potential interviews, and possible charges if sufficient evidence is gathered.
Sources
BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c70kjr9wjw0t (Published: 43 minutes ago) - Provides live updates and highlights unknowns regarding the arrest.
CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/former-prince-andrew-arrested-epstein-files-suspected-misconduct-public-office/ (Published: 31 minutes ago) - Connects the arrest to Epstein files and notes the timing on his birthday.
The Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-police-epstein-files-sandringham-b2923465.html (Published: 40 minutes ago) - Confirms the arrest on suspicion of misconduct and the location.
CNN: https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-uk-police-02-19-26 (Published: 33 minutes ago) - Details police involvement and support between forces.
Euronews: https://www.euronews.com/2026/02/19/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-over-alleged-misconduct-in-public-office (Published: 10 hours ago) - Mentions previous loss of royal titles and the document-sharing allegations.
The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2026/feb/19/police-former-prince-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-sandringham (Published: 32 minutes ago) - Reports on police presence at the Sandringham estate and the specific allegations of sharing sensitive information.
