Former Prince Andrew arrested over Epstein ties: What to know
The Hill
by Ashleigh FieldsFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, has been arrested following his ties to the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. This arrest comes just weeks after Andrew was stripped of his royal title due to his controversial connections with Epstein, further escalating the ongoing crisis for the British royal family. Authorities confirmed that Andrew was taken from Sandringham House, a historic estate owned by the monarchy, and is currently in custody as part of an active investigation.
The arrest has reignited public scrutiny over Andrew’s past associations with Epstein, who died in 2019 while in federal custody on charges of trafficking minors. Earlier this year, Andrew lost his royal title after admitting to a “defining moment” during his friendship with Epstein but denied any wrongdoing. His legal troubles have worsened since then, with multiple lawsuits and allegations resurfacing, including claims from women who say they were exploited by Epstein while Andrew was present.
This development carries significant political implications, as it further erodes public trust in the monarchy and the British royal family. The arrest has sparked widespread criticism online, with many calling for accountability not just for Andrew but for the broader handling of crises within the royal family. As the situation unfolds, it raises questions about how the monarchy will navigate this latest scandal and its potential long-term impact on its reputation and public image.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026