Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrested in Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest took place on February 19 at Sandringham. Police confirmed that a man in his sixties is in custody. Searches are ongoing at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire.
No charges have been filed. An arrest does not mean guilt. The investigation remains active, and police say updates will follow.
Andrew is the brother of King Charles and the son of the late Queen Elizabeth II. He stepped back from royal duties five years ago. Last year, he stopped using his royal titles. He has consistently denied all allegations of sexual misconduct.
Public interest grew again after the U.S. Department of Justice released millions of files linked to Jeffrey Epstein. The release renewed calls for Andrew to answer questions about his past associations.
Thames Valley Police confirmed they have opened a formal investigation. They stressed the need to protect the integrity of the case due to strong public attention.
Under UK law, misconduct in public office is a serious offence. It involves the alleged abuse or neglect of official power. If proven in court, it can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
For now, the case is under investigation, and no outcome has been decided.