Thames Valley Police have confirmed on Thursday morning that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been arrest for suspicion of misconduct in a public office.
Police vehicles were seen arriving at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk early this morning, where Prince Andrew, now referred to formally as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — is currently living as he marks his 66th birthday.
Thames Valley police, said in a statement, “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 said: “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.”
Six unmarked police cars reportedly pulled up at the King’s country residence shortly after 8am.
Witnesses said several individuals arrived in civilian clothing but “appeared to be police officers.”
According to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), “The offence concerns serious wilful abuse or neglect of the power or responsibilities of the public office held.
“There must be a direct link between the misconduct and an abuse of those powers or responsibilities.
The Court of Appeal has made it clear that the offence should be strictly confined, and it can raise complex and sometimes sensitive issues.
Andrew has been living at Wood Farm, a secluded cottage on the periphery of the Sandringham grounds, after being required to leave Royal Lodge in Windsor by Charles III.
The property, located along a private drive in Wolferton, was previously home to Prince Philip during the final years of his life.
The former duke’s move to Norfolk followed ongoing controversy and the scaling back of his official royal duties.
Wider scrutiny and Epstein investigations
The police presence comes amid heightened national scrutiny linked to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. Nine police forces across the United Kingdom are currently assessing whether to open or expand investigations connected to Epstein and associated allegations.
Detectives have not publicly confirmed any interview with Andrew at this stage. He has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing in relation to the longstanding allegations.
Thames Valley Police is examining claims that a second woman was trafficked to Britain by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Andrew. The force is also considering whether sufficient grounds exist to open a separate investigation into alleged misconduct in public office and a potential breach of official secrets.
These latter claims reportedly stem from recently released files from the US Department of Justice, which appear to suggest that sensitive government or commercial information may have been passed to Epstein. No charges have been announced, and no formal investigation has been confirmed in relation to those specific allegations.
Prime Minister’s response
Speaking this morning, Keir Starmer reiterated that “nobody is above the law” when asked about the allegations.
When pressed on whether Andrew should voluntarily present himself to authorities, the Prime Minister declined to comment directly, stating:
“I think that’s a matter for the police, they will conduct their own investigations, but one of the core principles in our system is that everybody is equal under the law and nobody is above the law.”
He emphasised that the principle must apply consistently, regardless of status or position.
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