Police detain Duke of York over alleged misconduct in public office
February 19, 2026: Prince Andrew, legally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to Thames Valley Police. Officers detained a man in his 60s from Norfolk on Wednesday and carried out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. Photographs showing unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate surfaced earlier in the day, fuelling speculation before the force confirmed the arrest. He remains in custody.
Police said they are reviewing allegations linked to his previous role as the United Kingdom’s trade envoy. The investigation is examining claims that he may have shared sensitive information during his tenure in public office, though authorities have not disclosed specific details about the alleged conduct.
The allegations are understood to involve convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, with whom Prince Andrew has previously faced scrutiny over his association. Officials have not indicated when further updates will be provided as inquiries continue.