Prince Andrew: Where is Sarah Ferguson & Future of the Monarchy?

The arrest of Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has shaken the British monarchy and raised questions about the future of the royal family, as public trust gradually erodes. The incident marks the first time since the 17th century that a member of the royal family has been detained.

Prince Andrew, 66, brother of King Charles III, was arrested at his residence in Sandringham on February 19, 2026, on his birthday. Police arrived at Wood Farm shortly after 8:00 a.m., according to reports. He was taken to a police station in Norfolk, where he was held for 11 hours before being released while an investigation continues.

King Charles III issued a brief statement following the arrest, stating, “The law must take its course,” signaling a clear distance from his brother’s situation.

The legal ramifications for Prince Andrew remain unclear. While released without bail, the investigation is ongoing, and prosecutors will determine whether to file charges. A conviction for misconduct in public office could carry a sentence of life imprisonment.

There is also discussion about potentially removing Prince Andrew from the line of succession through legislative action, a move that would be both symbolically and legally significant. This development underscores the challenges facing the monarchy as it navigates scandal and public scrutiny.

Ailsa Anderson, former press secretary to Queen Elizabeth II, told media outlets that Prince Andrew “appeared broken and haunted.”

Meanwhile, other members of the royal family continued with planned engagements, including King Charles, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Catherine, who attended the BAFTA awards ceremony.

Prince William offered a rare comment on the situation, stating he was not “in a particularly buoyant mood” when asked about the future of the monarchy. This comes as the royal family also navigates health concerns surrounding King Charles and family discord with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Where is Sarah Ferguson?

Attention has also turned to Prince Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who has not been seen publicly since before Christmas. Reports indicate she spent January at a luxury wellness clinic in Switzerland and is currently believed to be outside the United Kingdom.

Her past connections to Jeffrey Epstein could draw the attention of investigators, though there has been no official confirmation of questioning.

Royal biographers emphasize that this scandal could become one of the most serious tests for the modern monarchy. Historians and experts note that the unfolding situation – both legally and institutionally – could impact not only Prince Andrew’s personal fate but also the reputation of the monarchy itself.