British Police Arrest Former Prince Andrew Amid Scrutiny Over Epstein Ties

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by Megan Specia, Michael D. Shear and Michael Levenson

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

British police arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, also known as Prince Andrew, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. This stunning development comes amid ongoing scrutiny of his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier who died by suicide in 2019 while serving time for trafficking minors. The arrest marks a significant blow to the British monarchy, as it follows previous actions taken by Buckingham Palace to strip Andrew of his royal titles and remove him from official residences. The investigation centers on reports that Andrew may have shared confidential information with Epstein during his tenure as a British trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. While police did not disclose specific details, the arrest suggests they are exploring whether he misused his position for personal or improper gain. This follows years of speculation about Andrew’s alleged connection to Epstein and questions over his judgment in maintaining ties with someone known for his criminal activities. The royal family has responded cautiously, with King Charles III expressing “deepest concern” over the situation. In a written statement, he emphasized support for the proper investigation process while acknowledging the gravity of the allegations. The arrest underscores the broader societal focus on accountability, particularly among public figures and former royals, as they navigate ethical expectations and public scrutiny. This case highlights the challenges faced by individuals in positions of influence when their past actions are brought under intense review. It also reflects the ongoing impact of Epstein’s scandal, which continues to cast a shadow over those connected to him. As the investigation unfolds, it will likely generate significant interest globally, given Andrew’s former status as a senior royal and his high

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/19/2026