Former Prince Andrew Arrested Over Epstein Files Revelations

NORFOLK, UK — In an unprecedented development for the British monarchy, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, was arrested on the morning of Thursday, February 19, 2026, his 66th birthday. The arrest follows damning revelations in the massive trove of Jeffrey Epstein files released by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) earlier this month.

The Thames Valley Police confirmed they detained a “man in his sixties” at the King’s Sandringham estate on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

The Charges: Misconduct in Public Office

Unlike previous allegations which focused on sexual impropriety, this arrest centers on Andrew’s role as the UK Special Representative for International Trade and Investment (2001–2011).

• Leaking Confidential Data: Newly released emails from 2010 appear to show Andrew forwarding “confidential briefs” and official visit reports from Vietnam, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Shenzhen to Jeffrey Epstein.
• Economic Interests: In one exchange, Andrew reportedly sought Epstein’s “comments, views or ideas” on investment opportunities in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province, where British forces were then stationed.
• The Legal Stakes: Under UK law, misconduct in public office is a common-law offense that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

A Historic Day for the Monarchy

This marks the first time a senior member of the Royal Family has been arrested in nearly 400 years.

• King Charles III’s Reaction: Buckingham Palace released a direct statement from the King, who stripped his brother of his “Prince” title and royal honors in late 2025. “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course,” the King said, pledging “full and wholehearted support and cooperation” to the police.
• Police Custody: Andrew was held at Aylsham Police Station for approximately 11 hours. During this time, police conducted searches at his current residence at Wood Farm and his former home, Royal Lodge in Windsor.
• Released Under Investigation: Late Thursday evening, Andrew was released from custody but remains “under investigation.” He was photographed looking distressed in the back of a vehicle as he returned to Sandringham.

Survivors and Global Reactions

The arrest has been hailed as a landmark moment for survivors of Jeffrey Epstein’s network.

• Virginia Giuffre’s Family: A statement on behalf of Giuffre expressed gratitude to the police, noting, “He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.”
• International Pressure: US President Donald Trump commented on the arrest from Air Force One, calling it “a shame” and “very sad” for the royal family. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized that “nobody is above the law.”

Key Developments in the Epstein Files (Feb 2026)