Former Prince Andrew Briefly Detained by Police Over Misconduct Allegations
Police briefly detained King Charles III’s brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, in connection with suspected legal violations committed whilst he held public office. Andrew is alleged to be linked to classified documents relating to American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Andrew was arrested on Thursday (19 February) and by 19:00 GMT (Friday, 02:00 Western Indonesian Time), he was observed leaving Aylsham police station, approximately 60 kilometres from the former prince’s residence in Sandringham.
“The man who was detained has now been released under investigation,” Thames Valley Police said in a statement.
In addition to detaining Andrew, police had previously conducted a search of his residence in the Sandringham area of Norfolk, eastern England.
The arrest came after Thames Valley Police said they were reviewing a complaint related to the allegations. The alleged offences are said to have occurred whilst Andrew served as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy.
Meanwhile, Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “After a thorough review, we have now opened an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office.”
“It is important for us to maintain the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate these allegations. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time,” he added.
Andrew Denies Allegations
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who lost his royal title last year, has denied committing any offence.
The man, who turned 66 today, also denied any involvement in offences related to Epstein.
He has not yet responded to the BBC’s request for comment on the specific allegations that emerged after millions of Epstein-related documents were released in January.
BBC Royal Correspondent Sean Coughlan noted that the arrest should not be taken as confirmation of Andrew’s guilt, and no charges have been brought to date.
Nevertheless, as Coughlan reported, the episode represents a dramatic fall from the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle.
King Charles Comments
Neither King Charles nor Buckingham Palace received advance notice that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor would be arrested, according to information received by BBC News.
Following his brother’s arrest, King Charles released the following statement:
“I received the news with deep concern regarding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and the suspicion of misconduct in public office.
“A full, fair and proper process will now follow so that this matter is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.
“In this regard, as I have stated previously, we offer our full support and cooperation.
“Let me be clear: the law must take its course.
“As this process unfolds, it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.
“In the meantime, my family and I will continue to carry out our duties and service to you all. Charles R.”
Separately, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy responded to Andrew’s arrest by saying: “As justice secretary, and as the prime minister has said, no one in this country is above the law. This is now a police investigation, which must be allowed to take its course.”
Trump: Very Bad for the Royal Family
United States President Donald Trump spoke out regarding the arrest of former British Prince Andrew by British police, calling the arrest embarrassing.
“I think it’s embarrassing,” Trump was quoted as saying by AFP on Friday (20 February 2026).
He also described the arrest as very sad, saying it would have a negative impact on the royal family.
“I think it’s very sad. I think it’s very bad for the royal family,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One.
“It’s very, very sad,” he added.