Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the King's younger brother, has been arrested and subsequently released under investigation on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, is reportedly linked to allegations that he shared confidential government information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Police have conducted searches at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire.
The investigation follows earlier statements from Thames Valley Police indicating they were reviewing allegations concerning Andrew's association with Epstein and the sharing of confidential material. While Andrew has reportedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein, his arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny.
Events of the Day
On Thursday morning, unmarked police cars were observed at the Sandringham Estate, where Andrew has been residing. Shortly thereafter, Thames Valley Police issued a statement announcing the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk at approximately 8 a.m. on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
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Searches were conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. By Thursday evening, Andrew was photographed leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk, seated in the back of a car. Police confirmed his release under investigation, and that searches in Norfolk had concluded. The Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, a former residence of Andrew's, was also reportedly being searched.
Background and Allegations
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was previously stripped of his royal titles due to his connections with Jeffrey Epstein. Reports suggest the current investigation centers on allegations that Andrew misused his position as a UK trade envoy by sharing sensitive government documents with Epstein.
Association with Jeffrey Epstein: Andrew has faced long-standing questions about his relationship with Epstein, who was a convicted sex offender.
Misconduct in Public Office: The specific allegations relate to Andrew's conduct while serving as a trade envoy, with a focus on claims he divulged confidential material.
Denial of Wrongdoing: Andrew has consistently denied any improper actions related to his association with Epstein.
Official Statements and Reactions
Thames Valley Police have confirmed the arrest and subsequent release under investigation, but have not provided specific details regarding the grounds for the arrest. It is understood that the police department had notified the Home Office in advance of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest.
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King Charles III: The King has stated that "the law must take its course" regarding his brother's situation.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown: Mr. Brown has reportedly submitted further information to the police concerning the matter.
The Palace: The palace confirmed it was not informed prior to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest.
Evidence and Observations
Police Activity: Unmarked police cars were seen at the Sandringham Estate on the morning of the arrest. Searches were carried out at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire.
Photographic Evidence: Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was photographed leaving Aylsham police station in Norfolk on Thursday evening.
Police Statements: Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and his subsequent release under investigation.
Age of Arrestee: The arrested individual was identified as being in his sixties. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor turned 66 on the day of his arrest.
The Investigation Process
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's release under investigation signifies that he has not been formally charged with any offense, nor has he been cleared. The police investigation is ongoing. Searches at properties linked to him have either concluded or are continuing. The implications of the "misconduct in public office" charge, if pursued, would relate to the abuse of a position of public trust.
Broader Context
This arrest occurs in the wake of Epstein's sentencing and subsequent death, and amidst ongoing revelations concerning individuals connected to him. Andrew's previous public roles, including his tenure as a trade envoy, are under particular scrutiny. The decision to strip him of royal titles last year underscores the gravity of his association with Epstein.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested and released pending further investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office. The investigation, led by Thames Valley Police, is focused on claims that he shared confidential government information. While searches have been conducted, no charges have been filed. The outcome of the investigation remains undetermined.
Sources:
BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c70kjr9wjw0t (Published 12 hours ago)
BBC News: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx28yel4811o (Published 10 hours ago)
CNN: https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-uk-police-02-19-26 (Published 12 hours ago)
The Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-epstein-king-charles-latest-updates-b2923586.html (Published 12 hours ago)
Globalnews.ca: https://globalnews.ca/news/11674639/prince-andrew-released-arrest-misconduct-jeffrey-epstein-mountbatten-windsor/ (Published 1 hour ago)
CBC News: https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/livestory/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrest-uk-police-epstein-files-9.7096935 (Published 11 hours ago)
NPR: https://www.npr.org/2026/02/19/nx-s1-5719098/former-prince-andrew-arrested-on-suspicion-of-misconduct-in-public-office-reports (Published 22 hours ago)
ABC News: https://abcnews.go.com/International/british-police-arrest-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-suspicion-misconduct/story?id=130292161 (Published 11 hours ago)
STV News: https://news.stv.tv/scotland/andrew-released-under-investigation-after-misconduct-in-public-office-arrest (Published 2 hours ago)
