Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor — formerly known as Prince Andrew — has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest happened in London on February 19, the same day as his 66th birthday, in a major development that has shaken the royal family.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was taken into custody earlier today. Officers also carried out searches at addresses in Norfolk and Berkshire, including locations linked to the royal residence at Sandringham House. Authorities did not initially name the suspect, but major outlets including BBC, CNN, The Guardian, and Associated Press identified him as Mountbatten-Windsor.
The offense of misconduct in public office is a serious crime under UK law. It involves abuse of power or betrayal of public trust by someone in an official position. If proven in court, it can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The arrest follows new attention on files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Investigators are reportedly examining whether Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government or trade information during his time as the UK’s special trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.
Mountbatten-Windsor has faced years of scrutiny over his links to Epstein. In 2022, he reached a civil settlement with accuser Virginia Giuffre while denying wrongdoing. That same year, Queen Elizabeth II removed his military titles and royal patronages, and he stopped using his HRH title.
Following the arrest, King Charles III said he felt “deep concern” and stressed that the law must take its course. Buckingham Palace said the royal family will cooperate fully with the investigation.
Mountbatten-Windsor remains in police custody, and no formal charges have been announced yet. He has previously denied any criminal wrongdoing related to Epstein or other allegations.
This marks an unprecedented moment in modern royal history, as the brother of the reigning monarch faces arrest in a criminal investigation. More updates are expected as police continue their inquiries.
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