Andrew was taken into custody earlier today (19 February), the same day he marks his 66th birthday, at his residence in Sandringham.

The arrest follows a previous update from Thames Valley Police confirming the force was reviewing allegations that a woman was trafficked to the UK by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to have a sexual encounter with Andrew. There are also claims he passed sensitive information to Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.

Andrew was stripped of his remaining royal titles late last year amid mounting pressure over his links to Epstein.

Documents released by the US Department of Justice appeared to show the former Duke of York forwarding reports from official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore. One email, dated November 2010, appeared to have been forwarded by Andrew just five minutes after it was sent by his then-special adviser, Amir Patel.

Another message, sent on Christmas Eve 2010, appeared to share a confidential briefing on investment opportunities connected to the reconstruction of Helmand Province in Afghanistan.

In a statement, Thames Valley Police said: “As part of the investigation, 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.

“We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active, so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright added: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office.

“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.”

According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), misconduct in public office carries a potential maximum sentence of life imprisonment.

King Charles III speaks out

Following the arrest — the first of a senior royal in modern history — the King addressed the situation publicly.

As reported by PA Media, Charles expressed his “deepest concern” and emphasised that “the law must take its course”.

The monarch said: “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office.

“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.”

He continued: “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. Charles R.”

Charles had previously commented on the allegations involving his brother. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said at the time: “The King has made clear, in words and through unprecedented actions, his profound concern at allegations which continue to come to light in respect of Mr Mountbatten-Windsor’s conduct.”

The statement added: “While the specific claims in question are for Mr Mountbatten-Windsor to address, if we are approached by Thames Valley Police, we stand ready to support them as you would expect.

“As was previously stated, Their Majesties’ thoughts and sympathies have been, and remain with, the victims of any and all forms of abuse.”

The Prince and Princess of Wales also publicly addressed the Epstein scandal earlier this month, with Kensington Palace stating: “I can confirm that the Prince and Princess of Wales have been deeply concerned by the continued revelations.

“Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”

Virginia Giuffre’s family responds

The family of Virginia Giuffre have also spoken out following Andrew’s arrest.

Andrew has faced allegations — which he strongly denies — that he sexually assaulted Giuffre when she was a teenager after she was trafficked by Epstein. In 2022, he paid millions to settle a civil sexual assault claim brought by Giuffre, a woman he maintains he never met. Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025.

Her siblings told CBS News: “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 the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.

“He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.”