Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested on 19 February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office, in a dramatic escalation of legal scrutiny over his long-standing ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest unfolded on what was his 66th birthday, drawing intense international attention.

Thames Valley Police confirmed they had arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office related to allegations that he shared sensitive information with Epstein during his tenure as a UK trade envoy. Officers also carried out searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the investigation.

After approximately 11–12 hours in custody, Mountbatten-Windsor was released under investigation, a legal status that means he is not charged but remains subject to ongoing inquiries by police.

Allegations and Epstein File Revelations

The legal action stems from revelations in the Epstein files, a cache of documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice detailing connections between Epstein and a circle of influential figures. Some emails appear to show Mountbatten-Windsor forwarding official reports and confidential government material to Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy in the early 2010s — allegations he has consistently denied.

Though the prosecution hasn’t laid charges, the investigation into alleged misconduct in public office — a serious offence in the UK — could carry significant penalties if sufficient evidence is established.

Royal Family Response

King Charles III expressed deep concern over his brother’s arrest but emphasized that “the law must take its course”, affirming that the royal family would offer full support and cooperation with police.

The arrest marks a seismic moment in modern British royal history, as a senior royal figure has rarely faced such direct legal action. Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, have also publicly voiced concern over the revelations, focusing on support for victims rather than defending Mountbatten-Windsor’s actions.

Public and Political Reaction

In the UK and abroad, public officials and commentators have welcomed the legal process, framing the arrest as evidence that “no one is above the law” — especially regarding historical scandals tied to Epstein. Advocates for survivors and legal experts alike are pushing for a thorough investigation, urging full cooperation from all parties who may shed light on Epstein’s network and abuses.

What’s Next

With the former prince released pending ongoing investigation, many questions remain: whether prosecutors will bring formal charges, how long the inquiry will continue, and what further revelations may emerge from the Epstein files. Legal analysts predict the case could take weeks or months to resolve, depending on the weight of evidence and responses from investigators.

Sources: BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera, Reuters, Axios, CNBC