Disgraced Ex-Prince Andrew Arrested, Former Home Raided on Epstein-Related Suspicion of Misconducts

On February 19, the former Prince Andrew, Duke of York, was arrested by British police on suspicion of misconduct in public office and has been released under investigation, authorities and the royal household confirmed. The arrest came on his 66th birthday and has heightened scrutiny over his conduct during years of association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Officers also executed search warrants at his current residence on the Sandringham estate and at Royal Lodge, his former home near Windsor Castle, with searches planned to continue at the Berkshire property.

Andrew’s legal troubles stem from allegations tied to his tenure as a U.K. trade envoy, in which police believe he may have shared confidential information with Epstein; he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The arrest, the first of a senior royal in centuries, followed the release of millions of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice that included correspondence linked to Epstein.

King Charles III issued a rare personal statement Thursday afternoon, expressing “the deepest concern” over his brother’s arrest and underscoring his support for due process. “Let me state clearly — the law must take its course,” Charles said, adding that authorities have the “full and wholehearted support and cooperation” of the royal household as the investigation proceeds.

The arrest and subsequent searches have drawn reactions across the U.K. and beyond, with images circulating of unmarked police vehicles at Royal Lodge and at the Sandringham estate. Royal watchers have described the developments as an historic moment for the monarchy, with legal experts noting that there is no guarantee Mountbatten-Windsor will face charges, even as investigations continue.

Mountbatten-Windsor, stripped of his royal titles and roles in recent years, lived at Royal Lodge for decades before moving to Sandringham earlier in February amid ongoing Epstein-related scrutiny. He remains a figure of intense public interest as police and legal authorities advance their inquiries.