Investigators at Wood Farm in Sandringham on Thursday.Image: Getty Images Europe
Former Prince Andrew was arrested in Sandringham on his 66th birthday, British media report. What is known and what happens next.
Feb 19, 2026, 12:48 p.mFeb 19, 2026, 12:57 p.m
What happened?
Police arrested a man in his 60s on Thursday morning, Thames Valley Police said in a statement. According to British media, it is the former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who celebrates his 66th birthday on Thursday.
What is the accusation?
The arrest was made on suspicion of abuse of office, the police report. Properties in Berkshire and Norfolk are currently being searched. Until then, the arrested person will remain in custody.
There is a list of allegations against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. They are related to the Epstein case. Andrew is accused of passing confidential documents to Epstein, who died in 2019, in his previous role as a trade representative. In the recently published Epstein files, British media discovered emails that suggested that Andrew passed reports of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore to the sex offender. Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre had also accused Andrew of abusing her several times, including when she was still a minor. Andrew always denied the allegations.
Published emails put ex-Prince Andrew under pressure.Image: keystone
That is still unclear
How BBC reported, it is not yet known what information led police to make the arrest. Details about the allegations are still unknown. It is also unclear where the former prince is currently. Police did not say whether Andrew was questioned.
What’s next?
According to the police, an arrest does not automatically mean that guilt has been proven. She points out that the presumption of innocence applies until a conviction is made. There have also been no charges filed yet.
According to the BBC, Andrew can be held for a maximum of 96 hours. However, several extensions would have to be partially confirmed by the court. Suspects are usually held for twelve to 24 hours. This is followed by either an indictment or the person being released.
In the current case, the arrested man remains in custody while investigators search the property. Computers may also be of interest.
What does the royal family say?
According to The Independent King Charles and Queen Camilla have planned separate public appearances on Thursday. It is not yet known whether the latest developments will influence these dates or whether they will make a statement. The royal family had previously publicly stated that they would work with the police.