The former Prince Andrew was arrested “on suspicion of misconduct in public office”.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who was detained on his 66th birthday on February 19, 2026, remained in police custody for 12 hours after authorities arrested him at his home in Sandringham.
He was later released “under investigation”, police confirmed.
It is understood that Andrew, who was stripped of his titles and evicted from his home at Royal Lodge over his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, was not given prior notice.
Nor was King Charles or Buckingham Palace, however Thames Valley Police had contacted the Home Office . The King released the following statement:
“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.
“Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.
“As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
Subsequent property searches were carried out on properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
Police had previously said they were considering investigating the ex Duke of York over allegations relating to him sharing confidential material with Epstein while he worked as a Trade Envoy.
The arrest was not in relation to any allegations of sexual offences.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
The arrest was an historic event, being the first of a senior member of the British royal family in 400 years.
Thames Valley Police released the following statement when he was taken into custody:
“As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.
“The man remains in police custody at this time.
“We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”
“Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence.
“We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
