By Micah Jonah, February 19, 2026
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to British media reports.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was arrested as part of an ongoing investigation. Authorities said searches were being carried out at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
“The man remains in police custody at this time,” the statement read, adding that police would not formally name the suspect in line with national guidance. Officials also urged caution in public commentary as the case is now active.
Assistant Chief Constable, Oliver Wright said an investigation had been opened following a detailed assessment of allegations relating to misconduct in public office. He emphasised the need to protect the integrity and objectivity of the inquiry, noting the significant public interest surrounding the case.
Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles last year following controversy linked to his association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Reports indicate that investigators are examining allegations that emerged after United States authorities released millions of pages of documents connected to Epstein. Some documents reportedly suggested that Mountbatten-Windsor shared information from official trips abroad with Epstein during his time as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy.
UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer said Mountbatten-Windsor should cooperate fully with US authorities if required, stressing that “no one is above the law.”
The arrest marks an unprecedented development involving a former senior member of the British royal family and is expected to have further implications for the monarchy’s public image. The royal household has indicated its willingness to cooperate with law enforcement authorities as investigations continue.
