Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested today by United Kingdom police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest occurred at the Sandringham estate, a royal property. This development follows revelations linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case. King Charles III, Andrew's brother, has issued a statement indicating that "the law must take its course."
The arrest marks a significant event for the British royal family, bringing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's alleged involvement in matters connected to Epstein into the legal spotlight. King Charles III, despite the gravity of the situation, has continued with his scheduled public duties. The timing of the arrest, which coincides with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's 66th birthday, adds another layer to the unfolding narrative.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was taken into custody by Thames Valley Police. The police are reportedly searching properties associated with him, including his former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor, and his temporary home at the Sandringham estate.
Read More: Prince Andrew Arrested on Thursday for Misconduct in Public Office Linked to Epstein
Suspicion: The grounds for the arrest are stated as suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Location of Arrest: Sandringham estate.
Property Searches: Police are conducting searches at Royal Lodge in Windsor and the Sandringham estate.
Date: The arrest and associated police activity took place today, on Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's 66th birthday.
Royal Family and Official Reactions
King Charles III has publicly addressed the arrest, stating, "the law must take its course." This sentiment was echoed by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who remarked that "nobody is above the law." Neither King Charles III nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest.
King Charles III: Has continued with his public engagements, including ambassadorial audiences at St James’s Palace. He expressed deep concern upon learning of the news.
Queen Camilla: Is also continuing with her scheduled duties.
Prince William and Princess Kate: Are reportedly supporting King Charles's statement.
Buckingham Palace: No advance notice of the arrest was given to the Palace.
Background and Previous Context
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest is occurring in the context of ongoing revelations from files related to Jeffrey Epstein. He was previously stripped of his royal titles in October, a move that effectively ended his public role as a working royal. He is no longer referred to as Prince Andrew in official capacities and is known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who has accused Epstein of sex trafficking, previously sued Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. Her family has commented on the arrest, stating that "Virginia did this for you" for survivors.
Read More: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested in Norfolk for Misconduct in Public Office on February 19, 2026
Expert and Legal Commentary
The charge of "misconduct in public office" is a serious offense in the UK legal system. This requires proof that a public official has acted improperly in their capacity, causing harm or undermining public trust. The evidence leading to the arrest stems from disclosures within the Epstein files.
"We have seen that police have been searching properties linked to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor after the former prince was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office." - The Independent
"King Charles III, who stripped Andrew of his royal title in October, is speaking out on his brother's arrest." - USA Today
Broader Implications and Ongoing Situation
The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor represents a substantial legal and public relations challenge for the monarchy. The investigation is ongoing, with police continuing searches of relevant properties. The legal process is expected to unfold in accordance with UK law, as emphasized by the King and Prime Minister. The full extent of the allegations and the evidence to be presented will become clearer as the investigation progresses.
Current Status: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is in police custody.
Legal Process: UK police are handling the investigation and potential charges.
Public Engagement: Royal family members are continuing their public duties while the situation develops.
Sources Used:
BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c70kjr9wjw0t (Published 5 hours ago) - Provides details on King Charles's public engagement and statement following the arrest.
CNN: https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-uk-police-02-19-26 (Published 5 hours ago) - Confirms the arrest, the suspicion of misconduct in public office, and details of property searches.
The Mirror: https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/royals/prince-andrew-mountbatten-arrested-live-36747465 (Published 5 hours ago) - Reports on King Charles continuing his duties and comments from the First Minister of Scotland.
The Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-epstein-king-charles-latest-updates-b2923586.html (Published 5 hours ago) - Details police searches and reiterates King Charles's continuation of duties.
USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/live-story/entertainment/celebrities/2026/02/19/prince-andrew-arrest-live-updates/88753996007/ (Published 3 hours ago) - Focuses on King Charles's statement and the unified front of the royal family, noting Andrew's change in name and title.
Manchester Evening News: https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/uk-news/live-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-33452031 (Published 15 hours ago) - States the suspicion of misconduct in public office and ongoing police searches.
CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/former-prince-andrew-arrested-epstein-files-suspected-misconduct-public-office/ (Published 5 hours ago) - Links the arrest to Epstein files, outlines the charge, and includes King Charles's statement and comments from the UK Prime Minister.
