Former British Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, 66, was arrested on his birthday, February 19, 2026, in a development that has sent shockwaves through the United Kingdom and drawn a response from his brother, King Charles III. The arrest highlights the ongoing scrutiny of the royal family and its members.
King Charles III released a statement expressing his concern over the allegations of misconduct in public office. “I was deeply concerned to learn of the allegations of breaches of public duty,” he said. “A careful, fair and thorough process will now take place, during which the relevant authorities will properly investigate the matter.”
“As I have said before, the Royal Family fully and wholeheartedly supports this process and we will cooperate where necessary,” the King continued. “Let me be clear – the law must be followed.”
Charles III added, “Whilst this process is underway, it would not be appropriate to offer further comment on the matter, however, my family and I will continue to carry out our duties and serve you all.”
According to reports, at least six unmarked vehicles carrying eight officers were seen arriving at the royal family’s Sandringham estate in Norfolk, England, on the morning of February 19. Police arrested Mountbatten-Windsor following “careful consideration of the circumstances” regarding alleged breaches of public duty. Investigations are underway, with searches conducted in Berkshire and Norfolk.
Experts suggest the former prince could be held for up to 96 hours, though extensions would require approval from senior police officials and a magistrate. Mountbatten-Windsor will be held in a basic cell with only a bed and toilet while awaiting questioning, and will not receive special treatment, according to reports.
The arrest comes as Prince Andrew has long been linked to convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He is suspected of potentially passing confidential information to Epstein while serving as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy.
Mountbatten-Windsor, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor after being stripped of his royal title, had already relocated from Windsor to a more secluded cottage at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk amid increasing international pressure over his association with Epstein. He moved from the Royal Lodge to Woodfarm Cottage on the Sandringham estate earlier in February.
Andrew stepped down from royal duties in 2019 following allegations by Virginia Giuffre, one of Epstein’s accusers, that she was sexually exploited by him on three occasions, two of which occurred when she was 17 years old. In 2021, she filed a civil lawsuit in the U.S., which was settled out of court in February 2022 for approximately £12 million.
At the end of last year, King Charles III removed his brother’s royal titles and honors. The development underscores the ongoing efforts to distance the monarchy from the Epstein scandal and maintain public trust.
