Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested: Why the ex-prince is in custody
This arrest marks another chapter in the fall from grace of the former prince, after his brother stripped him of his royal titles.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested at the Sandringham estate on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
According to The Guardian, Thames Valley Police detained the 66-year-old at Wood Farm at 8:00 on 19 February 2026 following an investigation into allegations that he shared sensitive government information with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a UK trade envoy.
This reportedly dramatic arrest, on his birthday, marks the final fall from grace for the man formerly known as the Duke of York.
In late 2025, his brother King Charles III stripped Andrew of his royal styles, military titles, and his “His Royal Highness” status, following years of scandal involving his association with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
While Andrew has consistently denied wrongdoing, his 2019 Newsnight interview was described as a “nuclear explosion level” public relations disaster.
‘Prince’ Andrew arrest: Misconduct and the Epstein files
The current criminal investigation was triggered by recently released files from the United States government. Emails from early 2011 reportedly indicate that Andrew knowingly shared confidential trade documents with Epstein.
These disclosures contradict Andrew’s previous claims that he severed ties with the paedophile financier in late 2010.
Critics, including former trade officials, have accused Andrew of having “ruthlessly exploited” his official role. Beyond the financial misconduct, Andrew remains haunted by several serious allegations from Epstein’s victims:
- Virginia Giuffre: Accused Andrew of sexual assault on three occasions, including a 2001 encounter in London when she was 17.
- Johanna Sjoberg: Alleged that Andrew groped her at Epstein’s Manhattan mansion.
- Anonymous Dancer: Claimed Andrew and Epstein propositioned her for a threesome in Florida in 2006.
- Anti-monarchy group Republic: Reported Andrew to police for suspected misconduct in public office and breaches of the Official Secrets Act.
Thames Valley Police are currently carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk as Andrew remains in custody. The King is said to be ready to support the police as they assess the claims.