Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York — was arrested early Thursday in the U.K. on suspicion of misconduct in public office, British police confirmed. The arrest took place at his home on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk — his 66th birthday — marking the first time in modern British history that a senior member of the royal family has been detained by police.
The investigation stems from recent revelations in the U.S. Department of Justice’s heavily redacted release of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents (“Epstein files”), which included emails suggesting that during his time as the U.K. trade envoy (2001–2011), Andrew may have forwarded confidential government trade reports and other official information to Jeffrey Epstein.
Thames Valley Police said they have opened an investigation into alleged misconduct in public office, and officers are searching addresses in both Norfolk and Berkshire as part of the probe.
Andrew remains in police custody as the investigation continues; under U.K. law, being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office does not mean he has been charged. Police are working with prosecutors while maintaining the integrity of the investigation.
As Time magazine reports, Buckingham Palace and King Charles III issued statements expressing “deep concern” and pledged full cooperation with authorities if asked, emphasizing that the legal process must run its course:
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation,” said Charles in a statement Buckingham Palace shared with TIME.
Emphasizing that “the law must take its course,” Charles added: “As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
His Majesty’s statement came after Thames Valley Police confirmed early morning searches on two addresses related to Andrew.
“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,” read a statement. “The man remains in police custody at this time.”
Andrew has long faced public scrutiny over his association with the late convicted child sex offender and indicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. In 2022, he settled a U.S. civil lawsuit brought by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre without admitting wrongdoing, while denying all allegations.
King Charles stripped him of his remaining royal titles and privileges late last year after further revelations from the Epstein files intensified reputational pressure on the monarchy.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
READ NEXT: A Top Trump Official Is Leaving — Here’s What We Know
Queen Elizabeth handled that YEARS ago! He had to sell a vacation home in England and use that to pay fees, fines, whatever. Elizabeth helped him stabilize.
I don’t know who brought this up recently, but it is really out of line!