Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Arrested on 66th Birthday in Norfolk
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former prince, was arrested at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk on the morning of his 66th birthday. The arrest occurred after 8am on February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a charge reportedly connected to his previous role as a UK trade envoy.
Police Investigation and Allegations
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest followed a thorough assessment of allegations involving the sharing of sensitive information. The investigation focuses on claims that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential or sensitive information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. These allegations have persisted for years, stemming from a review of files regarding their professional and personal relationship.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “We have today (February 19) arrested a man in his 60s from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk.” As of the afternoon of February 19, the man remained in police custody.
Coordinated Searches and Scene Details
Simultaneously, officers conducted coordinated searches at properties in Berkshire, likely near Windsor, and Norfolk at Sandringham. Photographs from the scene show at least six unmarked police vehicles and eight plainclothes officers arriving at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate. Reports indicate officers were seen carrying police issue laptops into the property during the early morning raid.
Legal and Royal Responses
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing regarding all past and present allegations. His legal team has not yet issued a new statement following the specific charge of misconduct. Meanwhile, Buckingham Palace stated that King Charles “has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light” and that they “stand ready to support” the police if approached. A spokesperson emphasised that “Their Majesties' thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse.”
Broader Probe and Human Trafficking Claims
The police are also reportedly reviewing allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew. While the current arrest specifically cites misconduct in public office, the broader probe continues to look into human trafficking claims across multiple counties, indicating an ongoing and extensive investigation.
