U.K. police arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office
In a stunning development that has sent shockwaves through the British royal family and beyond, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor—formerly known as Prince Andrew—was arrested on Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, marks an unprecedented moment: the first time in modern history that a senior member of the royal family has faced such criminal scrutiny.
The charges stem directly from the latest tranche of documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice in connection with Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender with whom Andrew maintained a long-standing friendship. Newly uncovered emails and materials suggest that during his tenure as the UK’s special trade envoy from 2001 to 2011, Andrew may have shared confidential government reports—including official briefings from overseas visits—with Epstein, who held no security clearance or official role. Thames Valley Police, after initially assessing the claims, confirmed the arrest and reported conducting searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. Andrew remains in custody as the investigation continues.
This latest fallout builds on years of controversy surrounding Andrew’s ties to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing, including allegations of sexual misconduct raised in earlier civil proceedings, which he settled out of court without admitting liability. Over time, these associations led to the loss of his military titles, public funding, and royal patronages under Queen Elizabeth II, and more recently, King Charles III stripped him of remaining honors, including aspects of his princely status, forcing him to relocate from royal residences.
King Charles III responded with a measured statement expressing deep concern and affirming that “the law must take its course,” while pledging the family’s full cooperation with authorities. The offense of misconduct in public office, rooted in common law, carries a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment and centers on the abuse of public trust through willful misconduct.
As the investigation unfolds, this historic arrest underscores the enduring repercussions of the Epstein scandal and raises profound questions about accountability, even at the highest levels of society. The royal family, already navigating a period of transition, now faces one of its most challenging chapters yet.