Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew and brother to King Charles III, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest was made by Thames Valley Police, who are also conducting searches at properties linked to the 66-year-old in Berkshire and Norfolk. Mountbatten-Windsor remains in police custody.
Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest, stating they had taken a man in his sixties from Norfolk into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office. While the police did not name the individual, citing national guidance, reports widely identified the arrested man as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. The investigation is reportedly connected to allegations that he shared confidential trade reports with the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as the UK’s envoy for international trade.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police stated that following a thorough assessment, an investigation has been opened into the alleged misconduct. He emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity and objectivity of the investigation. Police are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, and Mountbatten-Windsor is currently being held in police custody. The maximum detention period without charge is typically 96 hours, though extensions are possible.
The arrest is a significant development for the British royal family, which has sought to distance itself from Mountbatten-Windsor following his association with Jeffrey Epstein. He was stripped of his royal titles last year. The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday. Anti-monarchy group Republic welcomed the news, suggesting their pursuit of a private prosecution may have influenced the police action. This event is unprecedented, with no senior royal having been arrested in modern history, though Princess Anne was convicted and fined for a dog-related offense in 2002.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing related to his past associations and the allegations stemming from them. He settled a civil lawsuit with Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of Epstein’s victims, in 2022, without admitting liability. Recent releases of documents related to the Epstein case have reportedly included emails suggesting he continued communication with Epstein after claiming to have severed ties and may have shared official reports.