Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, was arrested and later released from police custody on February 19, 2026. He was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office and spent nearly 11 to 12 hours being questioned before his release. Police stated he remains "under investigation." The arrest occurred on Andrew's 66th birthday.
Details of the Arrest and Release
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was photographed leaving Aylsham police investigation centre in Norfolk on the evening of his arrest. The arrest was confirmed by Thames Valley Police. He was later seen returning to Sandringham.
Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
He was in police custody for approximately 11 to 12 hours.
Police confirmed his release and stated he is "under investigation."
The arrest took place on Andrew's 66th birthday.
Broader Connections and Reactions
The arrest follows revelations from the Epstein files, referencing the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor had his royal title stripped the previous year due to his friendship with Epstein.
Andrew has not made a public statement regarding his arrest.
King Charles III commented that "the law must take its course" and expressed "deepest concern" over the allegations.
Former US President Donald Trump called the situation a "shame" and "very, very sad for the royal family."
Former British Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated he provided information to the police, expressing concern about securing "justice for trafficked women."
Background on Misconduct in Public Office
Misconduct in public office is a criminal offense in the UK. It occurs when a person who holds a public office acts dishonestly or is biased in their performance of a public duty. The specific details leading to Andrew's arrest on this charge have not been disclosed by the police.
Read More: Former Prince Andrew Released After Arrest Linked to Epstein Files in Norfolk
Andrew has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in relation to his friendship with Epstein.
Significance of the Event
This arrest marks a significant moment for the British monarchy. It is noted as the first time a British royal has been arrested in nearly 400 years. The situation is being closely followed internationally, with media outlets providing live updates and analysis.
Key Actors and Statements
| Individual/Entity | Role | Statement/Action |
|---|---|---|
| Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor | Former Prince, King Charles III's brother | Arrested, questioned for nearly 12 hours, released under investigation. |
| Thames Valley Police | Investigating Authority | Confirmed arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office; confirmed release under investigation. |
| King Charles III | King of the United Kingdom | Stated "the law must take its course"; expressed "deepest concern" over allegations. |
| Donald Trump | Former US President | Commented on the arrest, calling it a "shame" and "very, very sad for the royal family." |
| Gordon Brown | Former British Prime Minister | Provided information to police concerning "justice for trafficked women." |
| Virginia Giuffre | Accuser in Epstein scandal | Her family issued a statement, though the content is not detailed in the provided summaries. |
Further Information and Next Steps
The police have concluded their searches in Norfolk. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains under investigation, and it is unclear what the next steps in the legal process will be. The arrest has brought renewed attention to the long-standing allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor concerning his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
Sources Used:
BBC News: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/c70kjr9wjw0t (Published 12 hours ago)
CNN: https://www.cnn.com/world/live-news/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-uk-police-02-19-26 (Published 11 hours ago)
9News: https://www.9news.com.au/world/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrested-live-updates-latest-news-headlines/9fe3f636-cf46-4094-97aa-04f98f733ac2 (Published 10 hours ago)
The Sydney Morning Herald: https://www.smh.com.au/world/europe/andrew-mountbatten-windsor-arrest-live-updates-former-prince-arrested-by-uk-police-at-sandringham-estate-amid-epstein-scandal-20260219-p5o3w7.html (Published 11 hours ago)
Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/liveblog/2026/2/19/live-ex-uk-prince-andrew-arrested-amid-epstein-scandal (Published 11 hours ago)
Daily Post: https://www.dailypost.co.uk/news/north-wales-news/prince-andrew-arrested-live-police-33452517 (Published 11 hours ago)
The Irish Times: https://www.irishtimes.com/world/uk/2026/02/19/live-updates-former-prince-andrew-mountbatten-windsor-news-arrest/ (Published 10 hours ago)
