NEW: Former Prince Andrew Arrested Over Epstein Ties

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, sending shockwaves through the British royal family and prompting a rare public statement from King Charles III.

Thames Valley Police confirmed Andrew was taken into custody earlier in the day following what officials described as a “thorough assessment.” He turned 66 on Thursday.

Buckingham Palace said the king had been informed and expressed concern while emphasizing that authorities must handle the case independently.

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” the king said. “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. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.”

“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,” he added.

Police said searches were underway at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the investigation. Andrew has not been charged. Under U.K. law, he can be held for up to 96 hours before authorities must either charge or release him.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said investigators are proceeding carefully given the high-profile nature of the case.

“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Wright said. “It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”

Misconduct in public office is a serious common-law offense involving abuse or neglect of official duties. It can apply to a wide range of public servants, including elected officials, civil servants, police and others in positions of authority. The charge carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.

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Andrew has faced years of intense scrutiny over his association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who died in a Manhattan jail cell in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges.

The family of Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of Epstein’s most prominent accusers, welcomed news of the arrest.

“At last. Today, our broken hearts have been lifted at the news that no one is above the law, not even royalty. On behalf of our sister, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, we extend our gratitude to the UK’s Thames Valley Police for their investigation and arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor,” the statement said. He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.”

Giuffre, who died last year, alleged that Andrew had sexual relations with her when she was 17. In her memoir, she recalled being instructed by Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, “When we get home, you are to do for him what you do for Jeffrey.”

“He was friendly enough, but still entitled — as if he believed having sex with me was his birthright,” Giuffre wrote.

“The next morning, Maxwell told me: ‘You did well. The prince had fun.’ Epstein would give me $15,000 for servicing the man the tabloids called ‘Randy Andy,’” she wrote.

Andrew has repeatedly denied the allegations.

🚨 HOLY CRAP! Former Prince Andrew has been ARRESTED by British Police following revelations in the newly released Epstein files

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles, was taken into custody this morning, his 66th birthday.

FINALLY! pic.twitter.com/QCXUC7UA9Z

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) February 19, 2026

In October 2025, he announced he would stop using royal titles and honors, saying, “As I have said previously, I vigorously deny the accusations against me.” Later that month, Buckingham Palace confirmed the king had formally begun removing his titles, stating he would henceforth be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

Authorities have not publicly disclosed what specific actions led to Thursday’s arrest. The Crown Prosecution Service notes that misconduct in public office cases often involve complex and sensitive issues and require proof of a direct abuse of official power.

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