Prince Andrew, also known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was seen for the first time since his arrest on 19 February, his 66th birthday. The former royal, who has been embroiled in controversy over her relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, was photographed leaving a police station in Norfolk after spending 11 hours in custody. His arrest has raised significant public interest and questions about his future, with legal experts warning that he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted.
What happened:
On 19 February, Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office relating to his former role as UK trade envoy. Following a complaint lodged by anti-monarchy group Republic, police searched his homes in both Norfolk and Berkshire. The complaint alleges that Andrew shared confidential government information with Epstein via email during his tenure as a trade envoy. The development follows the release of US Justice Department documents containing references to Andrew and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, and his continued contact with Epstein.
The arrest follows a series of scandals over Andrew’s ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender and financier. Despite the numerous allegations against him, Andrew has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in relation to his relationship with Epstein.
Legal implications and King Charles’s response:
Following the arrest, Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed the investigation, saying it was necessary to maintain the integrity of the process. “It is important that we protect the integrity and impartiality of our investigation,” he said. Although the statement did not name Andrew, it was clear that he was the focus of the investigation into alleged misconduct.
Andrew’s arrest follows a series of actions taken by the royal family in recent years. Following a 2019 BBC interview about his relationship with Epstein, Andrew stepped back from his royal duties. In January 2022, Queen Elizabeth stripped him of his military titles and patronage after an unsuccessful attempt to dismiss a sexual assault lawsuit brought by Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre. Although Andrew settled with Giuffre in 2022, the scandal continues to haunt him.
In October 2025, King Charles formally removed Andrew’s royal titles and honours, and he was ordered to vacate the Royal Lodge at Windsor. Following the release of documents related to Epstein, King’s office confirmed that he would cooperate with any investigation.
King Charles expressed “deep concern” about the allegations against his brother, saying that the situation would be handled in the appropriate legal manner. He also stressed his support for the legal process, saying, “The law must take its course.”
Public reactions and royal interactions:
Despite the arrest, both King Charles and Queen Camilla continued with their public duties. On 19 February, the Queen attended a concert in London, while the King held royal events, including an audience and appearance at London Fashion Week. Andrew’s arrest has drawn considerable public attention, with many wondering what’s next for the once-powerful royal family.
looking ahead:
As the investigation continues, experts believe it could be several weeks or even months before Andrews is charged, if any. The Crown Prosecution Service will review the evidence and decide whether it is in the public interest to proceed with the case. If Andrew is charged with misconduct in public office, he could face a maximum sentence of life in prison, although legal experts say such sentences are rare and generally reserved for the most serious cases of abuse of public trust.
As the legal process unfolds, the public is keeping a close eye on whether Andrew will be held accountable for his actions, and how this ongoing case will impact the royal family’s reputation going forward.