Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, was arrested Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office as part of an investigation linked to disclosures in the recently released Epstein files, UK media reported.
The Thames Valley Police released a statement confirming that a man in his 60s was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office, which carries a maximum life sentence under UK law. It did not identify the individual, consistent with standard practice in the UK, where suspects are typically not publicly named before being formally charged. Mountbatten-Windsor remains in custody as detectives search his properties in Norfolk and Berkshire.
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.”
Hours after the arrest, King Charles III released a statement expressing that he had “deep concern” and reiterated that “the law must take its course,” adding that the royal family will cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles by King Charles III in 2025 amid long-standing controversy over his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The family of Virginia Giuffre, who accused Mountbatten-Windsor of sexual abuse and died by suicide in 2025, also commented:
At last. Today, our broken hearts have been lifted at the news that no one is above the law, not even royalty. On behalf of our sister, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, we extend our gratitude to the UK’s Thames Valley Police for their investigation and arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. He was never a prince. For survivors everywhere, Virginia did this for you.
Former Labour Cabinet minister Peter Mandelson is also under police investigation for his Epstein ties following the latest file release.
The arrest follows the release by the US Department of Justice of more than 3 million pages of Epstein files, 180,000 pictures, and 2,000 videos. Among the disclosures under review are alleged communications suggesting that Mountbatten-Windsor sent confidential trade reports to Epstein during his tenure as the UK’s special envoy for international trade and investment from 2001 to 2011—activity that may implicate misuse of public office.
The misconduct investigation does not relate directly to any criminal sexual conduct allegation at this stage, and police have not confirmed whether charges are imminent.
