19.02.2026 13:31
In England, King Charles III's brother, former Prince Andrew, was detained on suspicion of abuse of public office in connection with the Epstein investigation.
Former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has reportedly been detained as part of an investigation into allegations of misconduct in public office in the United Kingdom. According to the BBC, the suspect in his 60s was arrested today (February 19) in Norfolk.
SEARCHES CONTINUE AT ADDRESSES
In a statement made by the police, it was noted that searches are ongoing at several addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk, and the suspect remains in custody.
ALLEGATION OF SEXUAL ENCOUNTER
BBC reporters have stated that authorities are investigating allegations of misconduct in public office against former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as well as claims that a second woman was sent to the United Kingdom by Jeffrey Epstein and that a sexual encounter was arranged.
"WE MUST MAINTAIN THE INTEGRITY OF THE INVESTIGATION"
Authorities emphasized that, according to national guidance, the name of the person detained will not be officially disclosed. They also reminded that the case is in an active investigation process and called for caution regarding the risk of contempt of court in any publications.
"CURRENTLY BEING HELD UNDER POLICE CUSTODY"
A statement from Thames Valley Police reads: "As part of the ongoing investigation, today (19/2), a man in his 60s from Norfolk has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, and searches are being conducted at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. The individual is currently being held under police custody. In accordance with national guidance, we will not disclose the name of the person detained. We also remind that this case is now active and emphasize the need for caution in any publications to avoid contempt of court."
Deputy Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated: "Following a comprehensive assessment, we have initiated an investigation into the allegation of misconduct in public office. It is important to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the investigation while examining the alleged crime. We are aware of the significant public interest in this case and will provide updates at the appropriate time."
FIRST ARREST
This development marks the first arrest of the former prince, who has been the subject of numerous allegations due to his connections with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to BBC's live blog, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has "categorically and vehemently" denied all allegations made against him to date. While details of the investigation have not yet been shared with the public, authorities are expected to make statements if new information emerges.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Some photographs included in new Epstein documents released by the U.S. Department of Justice had sparked public debate due to images of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor with a woman. In one of the published photos, Windsor is seen leaning over a woman lying on her back on the floor. The three-frame images show Windsor looking directly at the camera in one photo, while in another frame, he has his hand on the woman's stomach.
In another group of documents released last month, a photo of Windsor with multiple women was made public. Email correspondence in the documents revealed that Windsor invited Epstein to dinner at Buckingham Palace just days after his house arrest ended. The correspondence included statements where Windsor promised Epstein "ample privacy."
TITLES STRIPPED
King Charles had stripped Windsor of his prince title with an official document approved by the royal seal in November 2025. The king's decision was announced with a royal document titled "Letters Patent" dated November 3, 2025, stating, "THE KING hereby declares that Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has lost the right to bear the titles 'His Majesty' and 'Prince' as of the official document dated November 3, 2025, and approved by the Great Seal."