King Charles Says Law Must Take Course After Brother Andrew's Arrest in London

A senior royal, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on his birthday for suspected misconduct. This is the first arrest of a senior royal in nearly 400 years.
By Newsroom | UK Politics, Royal Family |

A senior member of the British royal family, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested on his 66th birthday for suspicion of misconduct in public office. This event marks a rare and serious moment for the House of Windsor, being the first arrest of a senior British royal in nearly 400 years. Following the news, King Charles III quickly issued a statement, saying he learned of the arrest "with the deepest concern." He clearly stated that "the law must take its course" and added that he would not comment further as the police investigation continues. This situation brings questions about the legal system's reach and the expected conduct of public figures, even those in royal positions. The family has promised to keep serving the nation despite these events.

Detailed Context of Events

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, also known as former Prince Andrew, was arrested on Thursday, his 66th birthday. This arrest followed a period of public focus on his links to Jeffrey Epstein. Earlier this month, Mountbatten-Windsor had moved to Wood Farm, a home on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, after being asked to leave his longtime home near Windsor Castle.

Read More: King Charles III Says "Law Must Take Its Course" After Brother Andrew's Arrest on February 19, 2026

The arrest came after pictures were seen online showing unmarked police cars at Wood Farm, with police officers in normal clothes outside. About two weeks before, a group that works against the monarchy had asked the police to look into documents. These papers, found in Jeffrey Epstein files, seemed to show Mountbatten-Windsor sharing secret government details with Epstein when Mountbatten-Windsor was a British trade representative. Last week, Buckingham Palace had stated that the royal family would work with the police if questions about Mountbatten-Windsor arose.

Read More: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested on Misconduct Charges Linked to Jeffrey Epstein on February 19, 2026

On the day of the arrest, police said they were doing searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. Mountbatten-Windsor was later released under investigation. He was seen leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk in a vehicle. Hours after the arrest news, King Charles III made his first public appearance at London Fashion Week, where he was asked about his brother.

Key Evidence

"King Charles III stated: 'Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.'" (Source 2)

"Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on Thursday for suspected misconduct in public office." (Source 2, 4)

Police carried out "searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk." (Source 2)

He was "released under investigation" after leaving Aylsham police station. (Source 3)

The offense of misconduct in public office "carries a maximum possible sentence of life in prison in Britain." (Source 2)

Mountbatten-Windsor has "always denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein." (Source 1)

King Charles III said he "learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor." (Source 2)

Buckingham Palace stated the royal family would "cooperate if police came asking questions about Mountbatten-Windsor." (Source 2)

The Arrest and Its Reasons

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was taken into police care on his 66th birthday. The reason given for this was suspicion of misconduct in public office.

  • This suspicion follows what was found in the Jeffrey Epstein files. An anti-royal group had asked police to look into documents suggesting Mountbatten-Windsor shared secret government details with Epstein when he was a British trade representative.

  • However, Mountbatten-Windsor has always said he did nothing wrong concerning Epstein.

The Royal Family's Response

King Charles III made it clear he was very worried about the news of his brother's arrest.

  • He firmly stated, "the law must take its course," and confirmed he would not say more while the police investigation continues.

  • The King also promised that the royal family would continue to do their duty and serve the people.

  • Before the arrest, Buckingham Palace had already stated that the royal family would work with police if questions about Mountbatten-Windsor were asked.

Historical Weight of the Event

This arrest is seen as one of the most serious problems for the House of Windsor since it began over a century ago.

  • It is the first time a senior British royal has been arrested in almost 400 years. The last time was during the time of King Charles I, when power struggles happened between the crown and Parliament.

Police Steps and What Happens Next Legally

Thames Valley Police arrested a man in his sixties and carried out searches at places in Berkshire and Norfolk.

Read More: Former Prince Andrew Released After Arrest Linked to Epstein Files in Norfolk

  • The person was later released under investigation after leaving a police station in Norfolk.

  • Does being released under investigation mean the police work is still active, or does it show that finding direct evidence for charges is proving difficult?

  • The law for misconduct in public office can mean up to life in prison in Britain.

Expert Analysis

No independent expert analysis regarding these events was made available in the provided reports.

Conclusion

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a claim linked to findings in Jeffrey Epstein files. After police searches, he was released under investigation. King Charles III has publicly stated that the legal process must continue without any royal interference. This event is historically rare and brings serious questions for the royal family's public standing and operations. The police investigation is still ongoing, and Mountbatten-Windsor remains under investigation. The royal family has affirmed its plan to continue with its public duties.

Most Used Sources and Context:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on his birthday?
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This is linked to documents found in Jeffrey Epstein's files that suggested he shared secret government details.
Q: What did King Charles III say about the arrest?
King Charles III expressed deep concern and stated clearly that the law must take its course. He also said he would not comment further while the police investigation is ongoing.
Q: What does 'released under investigation' mean for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?
Being released under investigation means the police are still actively looking into the case and gathering more information. It is not a final decision on charges.
Q: Is this arrest historically significant for the British Royal Family?
Yes, this is a very rare event. It is the first time a senior British royal has been arrested in nearly 400 years, making it a serious moment for the monarchy.
Q: What are the potential consequences for misconduct in public office in the UK?
The offense of misconduct in public office carries a maximum possible sentence of life in prison in Britain.
Q: Will the Royal Family stop their duties because of this arrest?
No, the Royal Family has promised to continue serving the nation and carrying out their public duties despite these events.