Prince Andrew was arrested on Thursday at Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to official statements and media reports.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of “a man in his sixties” following what it described as a “thorough assessment” of allegations. The force did not identify the individual, citing national guidance that prevents naming suspects at this stage.
“Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” the statement said, adding that protecting the integrity and objectivity of the inquiry remains a priority.
Reports indicate that investigators are examining claims that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential trade-related information in 2010 and 2011 with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Authorities have not publicly detailed the specific evidence under review.
Media outlets reported that several unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers arrived at the estate earlier in the day. The arrest reportedly took place on Andrew’s 66th birthday. Former Metropolitan Police Chief Superintendent Dal Babu told the BBC that an arrest would allow officers to seize electronic devices, documents and other material that may be relevant to the investigation, as well as conduct searches of premises linked to the suspect.
Prime Minister’s remarks
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded to the development by reiterating the principle of equality before the law. “Nobody is above the law,” Starmer said in an interview, adding that anyone with information related to violence against women and girls has a duty to come forward.
Background: Epstein links and prior controversy
Prince Andrew has faced years of scrutiny over his association with Epstein, whose criminal case generated extensive global attention. Previously released court documents — often referred to as the “Epstein Files” — included emails and photographs that intensified public and political pressure.
Andrew stepped back from royal duties in 2019 following a widely criticised television interview addressing allegations made by Virginia Giuffre, who accused him of sexual misconduct when she was 17. He has consistently denied those claims.
In 2022, Andrew reached an out-of-court civil settlement in the United States without admitting liability. In 2025, his brother, King Charles III, formally removed his remaining royal titles and patronages. Authorities have emphasised that the current matter is under active investigation. Under UK law, the suspect is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless and until proven guilty.
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