Andrew arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office as King says ‘law must take its course’
Summary
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested and is in custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office – read the police statement in full
The King’s brother was arrested at 08:00 this morning at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk – how the news broke
What is misconduct in a public office? Our legal correspondent explains
King Charles says he “learned with the deepest concern” of Andrew’s arrest, adding “the law must take its course” – Prince William and Catherine are understood to support the statement – read it here
The King was not informed in advance of the arrest, the BBC understands
Police are searching addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, including the Royal Lodge in Windsor where the former prince lived until recently
It comes after Thames Valley Police said they were assessing a complaint over the alleged sharing of confidential material by the former prince with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein
Andrew, who turns 66 today, has previously denied any wrongdoing in relation to Epstein; he has not responded to the BBC’s requests for comment on the specific allegations in relation to the release of millions of Epstein files in January
https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c70kjr9wjw0t
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested at his Sandringham home on suspicion of misconduct in a public office.
Around six unmarked cars were spotted arriving at the former prince’s home in Wood Farm just after 8am today – his 66th birthday.
He has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
It comes as detectives assess claims made in the Epstein files against the former Duke of York, including allegations he shared sensitive state information with paedophile Jeffrey Epstein while he was a UK trade envoy.
King Charles has stated ‘the law must take its course’ following his brother’s arrest, with police confirming they are searching his addresses.
Andrew has already denied the allegations made against him.
https://metro.co.uk/2026/02/19/police-arrive-andrew-windsors-home-sandringham-birthday-26991470/
Former duke held on suspicion of misconduct in public office after police raid Sandringham and Windsor homes on his 66th birthday
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2026/02/19/police-arrive-andrews-home/