Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Formerly Prince Andrew, Arrested in U.K. on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office

Hollywood Reporter

by Lily Ford

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Duke of York, Prince Andrew, has been arrested in the U.K. on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The former royal, who previously served as a senior member of the British monarchy, is linked to Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. Authorities are investigating allegations that Andrew shared confidential information with Epstein and facilitated a sexual encounter between Epstein and another woman. While Andrew has denied any wrongdoing, including claims from Virginia Giuffre, who alleged she was trafficked by Epstein for encounters with him, the legal process is now underway. The arrest marks an unprecedented moment for the U.K., as it involves a former member of the royal family. Police have opened an investigation into charges of misconduct in public office, which carry serious legal implications. This offense includes wilful breaches of duty that amount to an abuse of public trust. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the investigation while acknowledging the significant public interest in the case. King Charles III has expressed support for the legal process, stating that justice must take its course. In a statement, he reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the monarchy’s duty and service to the public, while allowing the investigation to proceed without interference. The King’s stance reflects the monarchy’s cautious approach to handling such matters, balancing public scrutiny with respect for the judicial system. The case has sparked widespread attention due to Andrew’s ties to Epstein and the broader implications for the royal family. While an arrest does not equate to guilt, it raises questions about Andrew’s past actions and the monarchy’s role in oversight. As authorities continue their probe, the outcome of this investigation could have significant repercussions for both Andrew and the British monarchy. The public will likely remain closelywatching developments, given the high-profile nature of the case and its potential impact on trust in public institutions.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/19/2026