Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been released under investigation after being taken into custody over suspicions of misconduct in public office, marking an unprecedented moment for the former royal.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his 60s was arrested at Sandringham in Norfolk on Thursday morning, with officers conducting searches at properties in both Norfolk and Berkshire.
By Thursday evening, the force said the individual had been released under investigation and that Norfolk searches were complete.
The police emphasized they would not name the man in line with national guidance and reminded the public to avoid actions that could risk contempt of court.
The former Duke of York was photographed slumped in the back of a car after leaving Aylsham police station, reflecting the seriousness of the legal action.
This represents his first arrest; he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Following a detailed review, Thames Valley Police said they had opened a formal investigation into the allegations.
While not linked to sexual offences, the probe stems from claims related to Andrew’s conduct during his tenure as the UK’s trade envoy from 2001 to 2011 and his reported connection to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
Documents recently released by the US Department of Justice indicate that Andrew forwarded official government reports from visits to countries including Vietnam, Singapore, and China to Epstein.
Additional files suggest he also shared information on investment opportunities in gold and uranium in Afghanistan.
Trade envoys are bound by confidentiality rules covering sensitive political, commercial, or strategic information, a responsibility Andrew held throughout his decade-long envoy role.
Earlier this year, police confirmed they were investigating a separate allegation involving a woman in her 20s, not a UK citizen, who Epstein allegedly sent to the country in 2010 for a sexual encounter with Andrew.
King Charles III expressed “deepest concern” at the arrest, stating: "What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities."
He added: "Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all." The BBC reports that the Prince and Princess of Wales back the King’s statement.
Despite the developments, royal engagements continued as planned. The King, attending the opening of London Fashion Week, did not respond to reporters' questions, while Queen Camilla waved without comment as she left a Windsor concert.
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: "We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time."
Norfolk Constabulary confirmed it is supporting Thames Valley Police in the investigation. Police previously indicated they were assessing allegations that Andrew shared sensitive materials and were reviewing claims of misconduct connected to Epstein, separate from sexual offence allegations.
Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown submitted a five-page letter to UK police forces providing additional information from Epstein files. Brown stated that the new material supplements information he shared last week, expressing concern over the need to secure justice for trafficked girls and women.
The arrest also drew reactions from Virginia Giuffre’s family. Her brother, Sky Roberts, described the investigation as a “win for survivors,” noting that Andrew’s arrest, though not directly linked to Virginia’s allegations, reflects the broader accountability process.
Roberts thanked the King and Royal Family for supporting the police investigation, adding: "We wouldn't be here without her (Virginia). We wouldn't be to a moment [sic] where this would have been investigated to this point."
Andrew withdrew from royal duties in 2019, citing disruption to the family caused by the Epstein-linked allegations. He lost his military roles and royal patronages after a US civil case was filed in 2022, culminating in the stripping of his princely title in October 2025, coinciding with the release of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir and new revelations about his ties to Epstein.
US President Donald Trump said of the arrest: "I think it's very sad. I think it's so bad for the Royal family."
