By Trendsetter Tribune 
LONDON — King Charles III has issued a firm statement of support for the rule of law following the historic arrest of his younger brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The former Prince was detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a common-law offense that carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
The arrest marks the first time a senior member of the British Royal Family has been held in police custody since King Charles I in 1649.
The King’s Statement: “Full and Wholehearted Support”
Buckingham Palace released a formal statement from the King shortly after the arrest was confirmed by Thames Valley Police. While expressing “deepest concern,” the monarch made it clear that the monarchy would not shield the former Duke from legal scrutiny.
“What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner… In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and cooperation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.” — Statement from King Charles III, Feb 19, 2026
Why Was Andrew Arrested?
The arrest is not based on the long-standing sexual assault allegations (which he continues to deny) but rather on his official conduct as the UK Special Representative for International Trade and Investment between 2001 and 2011.
According to the newly released “Epstein Files,” investigators are focusing on:
- Leaking Trade Secrets: Emails from October 2010 appear to show Andrew forwarding confidential government reports regarding official visits to Singapore, Vietnam, and Hong Kong to Jeffrey Epstein just minutes after receiving them.
- Afghanistan Investment Briefs: Documents suggest Andrew sent Epstein a “confidential brief” on high-value commercial opportunities in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, while British troops were actively deployed there.
- Misuse of Office: The investigation seeks to determine if Andrew utilized his taxpayer-funded position to provide a convicted sex offender with sensitive commercial intelligence for personal or mutual gain.
Timeline of the Arrest and Release
| Time (GMT) | Event |
| 8:00 AM | Andrew is arrested at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate. |
| 9:00 AM | Taken to Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk for questioning under caution. |
| All Day | Searches conducted at Wood Farm and his former residence, Royal Lodge in Windsor. |
| 7:00 PM | Andrew is released under investigation. He remains a suspect but is not currently charged. |
Reaction from the Giuffre Family
The family of the late Virginia Giuffre (who died in 2025) released a statement welcoming the arrest. “Today, our broken hearts have been lifted at the news that no one is above the law, not even royalty,” the family said. “He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.”