Prince Andrew arrested on 66th birthday by Thames Valley Police over Epstein file claims

Prince Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday, February 19, 2026, by Thames Valley Police. This is the first time a senior royal has been arrested in modern history.
By Newsroom | Crime, UK Royalty |

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, brother to King Charles III, was arrested by Thames Valley Police. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, is in connection with allegations that surfaced following the release of documents pertaining to Jeffrey Epstein. Police conducted searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk, including Sandringham Estate. Mountbatten-Windsor is currently in police custody.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested, Police Search Home on Birthday - 1

Arrest and Investigation Details

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest follows an assessment of claims that emerged from the Epstein files, which detail allegations against the former royal.

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  • Timing: The arrest took place on his birthday, February 19, 2026.

  • Location of Arrest: Detained on Thursday morning at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk.

  • Police Activity: Unmarked police cars and plain-clothed officers were observed at Wood Farm, Mountbatten-Windsor's residence on the Sandringham Estate. Searches were also reportedly carried out at Royal Lodge in Berkshire, his former home.

  • Official Statement: Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest and the suspicion of misconduct in public office.

  • Custody: Mountbatten-Windsor remains in police custody.

Official Statements and Palace Response

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest and the grounds for detention. It has been reported that Buckingham Palace and King Charles III were not informed in advance of the arrest. The Metropolitan Police are also involved in assessing claims related to Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor and other Epstein-related allegations.

Read More: Prince Andrew Arrested in UK on February 19, 2026, for Misconduct

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"Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, Thames Valley Police said Thursday." - CNN

"It is understood neither the King nor Buckingham Palace was informed in advance of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest." - The Independent

Background of Allegations

The current investigation is linked to revelations from the Jeffrey Epstein files. These documents have brought forth allegations concerning Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct while he served as a trade envoy. Specifically, concerns have been raised about the alleged sharing of confidential government information with Epstein.

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  • Epstein Files: The release of these files is a key factor leading to the current inquiry.

  • Allegations: Claims suggest Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive information with Epstein during his time as a trade envoy.

  • Previous Denials: Mountbatten-Windsor has previously denied any wrongdoing.

  • Giuffre Family Statement: The Giuffre family released a statement in response to the arrest.

Royal Family's Reaction

While King Charles III has not directly commented on the arrest, reports indicate he has previously expressed "profound concern" over allegations regarding Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor's conduct. The Queen was seen attending a public engagement hours after the arrest was confirmed.

Broader Context of the Arrest

This arrest marks a significant moment, as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is reportedly the first senior royal in modern history to be arrested. The investigation is being handled by multiple police forces, with nine forces currently assessing claims against him and others connected to the Epstein case.

Key Entities and Locations

EntityRole/Location
Andrew Mountbatten-WindsorSubject of arrest
Thames Valley PoliceLaw enforcement agency conducting the arrest and searches
Sandringham EstateRoyal estate in Norfolk; location of Wood Farm residence
Wood FarmAndrew Mountbatten-Windsor's residence
Royal LodgeAndrew Mountbatten-Windsor's former residence in Berkshire
Buckingham PalaceOfficial residence of the monarch
King Charles IIIMonarch, brother of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor
Jeffrey EpsteinConvicted sex offender; his files are central to the case

Sources Used:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was Prince Andrew arrested on February 19, 2026?
Prince Andrew was arrested by Thames Valley Police on his 66th birthday on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest is linked to claims that came out after the Jeffrey Epstein files were released.
Q: Where did the police arrest Prince Andrew and conduct searches?
Police arrested Prince Andrew at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk on Thursday morning. Searches were also carried out at Royal Lodge in Berkshire, his former home.
Q: What are the specific allegations against Prince Andrew?
The allegations suggest Prince Andrew may have shared confidential government information with Jeffrey Epstein when he was a trade envoy. He has previously denied any wrongdoing.
Q: Was the Royal Family informed about the arrest beforehand?
Reports indicate that neither King Charles III nor Buckingham Palace was told about Prince Andrew's arrest before it happened.
Q: What is the significance of this arrest?
This is reportedly the first time a senior royal in modern history has been arrested. Multiple police forces are looking into claims related to Prince Andrew and the Epstein case.