Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is in police custody. The former prince was arrested today after a raid on his new Sandringham home—on the very morning of his 66th birthday.
He is being held by the Thames Valley Police on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Per several news outlets, six vehicles arrived at Wood Farm—Andrew’s current residence—at 8 a.m. this morning to take him in.
“We have today arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office,” a Thames Valley spokesman confirmed.
His arrest follows the release of certain emails in the Epstein Files, which suggest Andrew may have shared confidential information with convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, including reports of his official royal visits and investment opportunities.
“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Thames Valley Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said.
Officers are searching Andrew’s current address in Norfolk as well as an address in Berkshire—likely the Royal Lodge in Windsor, where he lived for more than 20 years until he was ousted by brother King Charles III earlier this month.
Shortly after Andrew’s arrest, Charles released a statement.
“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office,” the monarch 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,” he continued. “As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter.”
Apart from the newly found information in the Epstein files, Andrew has long been connected to the (now late) convicted sex offender. The former prince was accused of sexual assault by late Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, who even detailed their alleged encounters in her memoir, Nobody’s Girl. And still, Andrew has constantly denied all accusations against him.
But Charles has taken a harsh stance through it all, siding with the victims. Last year, he stripped Andrew of all of his royal titles and honors, including the title of prince, and asked him to move out of the Royal Lodge inside the Windsor Estate.
“Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse,” Buckingham Palace said in a statement at the time.