Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on Thursday, February 25, 2026, in what marks the first arrest of a British royal family member by police since 1647. The former prince was taken into custody by Thames Valley Police following the release of new documents from the Epstein investigation, according to reports.
Andrew is suspected of misconduct in public office, specifically for allegedly sharing confidential information with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his tenure as Britain's special trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. The allegations reportedly involve sharing reports from state visits to Vietnam, Singapore, and China with Epstein in 2010.
Police conducted a six-day search of Andrew's Berkshire residence, Royal Lodge, which concluded on February 25. Deputy Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police stated that the investigation is ongoing but declined to provide further details, saying updates would be provided 'when appropriate.'
when appropriate
In a parallel investigation, former minister Peter Mandelson was also reportedly arrested on Monday on suspicion of leaking sensitive information to Epstein. Mandelson was allegedly detained after police received information that he planned to leave the country.
The arrests follow the January release of Epstein files by the U.S. Department of Justice, which reportedly contain evidence suggesting Andrew shared confidential information with Epstein. Andrew has consistently denied all allegations against him.
This development represents a significant escalation in the long-running scandal surrounding Andrew's association with Epstein, which has already cost him his royal titles and led to his relocation from Royal Lodge to more modest accommodations near Sandringham.