Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, Duke of York, was arrested on February 19, 2026—his 66th birthday—on suspicion of misconduct in public office, Thames Valley Police confirmed in a terse early-morning statement. The former royal, younger brother of King Charles III and eighth in line to the throne, was taken into custody following raids at addresses in Norfolk and Berkshire, including his current residence at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate. The dramatic development caps years of controversy surrounding his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and follows the recent release of additional Epstein-related files by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Thames Valley Police issued the following: “We have today (19/2) 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.” While the force did not name the suspect per standard protocol, multiple outlets—including BBC, CNN, The Guardian, and Reuters—confirmed the individual as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor based on contextual details and sources close to the investigation. Norfolk Police are assisting in the operation.

The arrest coincides with the former prince’s birthday, adding a layer of symbolism to an already seismic event. Andrew, born February 19, 1960, at Buckingham Palace, had his military titles and public royal duties stripped in January 2022 amid civil allegations of sexual assault related to Epstein—claims he has consistently denied. He settled a lawsuit with accuser Virginia Giuffre in 2022 without admitting liability. The latest charges center on alleged misconduct during his tenure as UK special representative for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011, a role that gave him access to sensitive government information.

Recent Epstein file releases, including millions of pages unsealed in early 2026, reportedly contained evidence suggesting Andrew shared confidential documents or insights with Epstein via email and other channels. Anti-monarchy groups and legal watchdogs had urged British authorities to reopen probes, citing potential breaches of official duties and national security protocols. Misconduct in public office carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment in the UK, encompassing abuse of position for personal gain or improper disclosure of information.

Eyewitness accounts describe unmarked police vehicles and plain-clothed officers arriving at Wood Farm shortly after dawn. Photos circulated online show activity at the entrance to the Sandringham grounds, where Andrew relocated after vacating Royal Lodge in Windsor earlier this month. Searches extended to his former Berkshire property, indicating a broad evidence-gathering effort. No charges have been formally filed yet; the arrest allows for questioning and further investigation under caution.

Buckingham Palace has remained silent beyond a brief acknowledgment that the matter is now with the police. King Charles III, who has maintained distance from his brother since the Epstein scandal intensified, faces renewed scrutiny over family dynamics and the monarchy’s handling of reputational damage. Sources close to the royal household describe the timing as “devastating,” with Andrew reportedly planning a low-key birthday observance before the intervention.

Andrew’s naval career, Falklands War service, and early public popularity contrast sharply with his post-2019 trajectory. His 2019 Newsnight interview, intended to clear his name, backfired spectacularly, leading to his withdrawal from public life. The Epstein connection—photographs of the pair together, flights on the financier’s plane, and stays at his properties—has haunted him despite repeated denials of knowledge about Epstein’s crimes.

Public reaction has been swift and polarized. Supporters argue the arrest represents overreach or political targeting of the royals, while critics see it as long-overdue accountability. Social media erupted with memes contrasting Andrew’s birthday celebrations (or lack thereof) with the police presence, hashtags like #AndrewArrested and #RoyalReckoning trending globally. Royal commentators note the unprecedented nature: a former working royal in custody on serious charges marks a historic low for the House of Windsor.

The investigation stems from complaints filed after the latest Epstein disclosures, which included alleged correspondence tying Andrew to trade-related intelligence shared inappropriately. Prosecutors will decide whether to charge based on evidence gathered, including digital forensics, witness statements, and seized materials. The Crown Prosecution Service emphasizes independence, though the high-profile nature invites intense oversight.

Andrew has not commented publicly since the arrest. His legal team is expected to issue a statement asserting his innocence and cooperation. Past denials framed his Epstein ties as regrettable but non-criminal, with emphasis on his charitable work and military service.

For the monarchy, the fallout could be profound. King Charles has worked to streamline the institution, reducing working royals and addressing public skepticism. This arrest risks amplifying perceptions of privilege and opacity, especially amid cost-of-living debates and republican sentiments. Yet the royal family’s resilience—surviving scandals from Diana to Harry and Meghan—suggests adaptation rather than collapse.

As Andrew remains in custody, the nation watches for next steps: bail conditions, formal charges, or release pending further inquiry. The 66th birthday that should have been private became a public reckoning. Whether this marks the end of his legal troubles or the beginning of a prolonged trial, the arrest ensures Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s name stays etched in headlines for years to come.

In the quiet of Sandringham’s grounds, where he once sought refuge, the former prince now faces the full weight of accountability. The royal saga, ever intertwined with scandal and scrutiny, adds another chapter—one that began with privilege and may end in judgment.