Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, Duke of York, has been arrested at his Sandringham estate home by Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
According to BBC, the 66-year-old was taken into custody early Thursday, with searches continuing at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said, “As part of the investigation, we have today arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. The man remains in police custody at this time. We will not be naming the arrested man as per national guidance. Care should be taken with any publication to avoid contempt of court.”
He added, “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation. It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners. We understand the significant public interest and will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
The arrest relates to allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor shared sensitive information with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy.
His association with Epstein, who died in 2019, has long drawn public scrutiny and led to his stripping of royal titles in 2025.
Following Epstein’s 2019 arrest for sex trafficking, public attention intensified after Andrew’s BBC interview defending his friendship with Epstein while showing little empathy for the alleged victims.
King Charles III revoked his princely title and had him relocated from Royal Lodge to Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate.
Legally, misconduct in public office can carry up to life imprisonment, though outcomes depend on evidence.
Reports say the investigation is ongoing, with further updates expected as the case develops.