Former Prince Andrew’s Arrest Casts Shadow Over UK Monarchy

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by Stephen Castle

February 20, 2026

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The arrest of Prince Andrew, also known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on charges of misconduct in public office has cast significant doubt over the reputation of the British monarchy. The former prince, who had already lost his royal title last year, was accused of sharing confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as a trade envoy. Epstein, a convicted sex offender, allegedly trafficked one of his victims to Prince Andrew when she was a teenager. While Andrew has denied any wrongdoing, the case has sparked widespread concern over the monarchy's ability to maintain public trust. The arrest comes amid growing scrutiny of the royal family's ties to Epstein, with reports that Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of Epstein's victims, claims to have been assaulted by Prince Andrew in 2001. Although this specific accusation was not mentioned in the police statement regarding his arrest, it has fueled public outrage and calls for accountability. King Charles III has reportedly distanced himself from his brother, stating that "the law must take its course." However, Andrew's eighth position in the line of succession remains unchanged, despite critics urging for a formal removal. The incident has already caused significant embarrassment for the monarchy, with King Charles facing heckling during public appearances and other royals, like Prince William, being forced to address the issue abroad. Meanwhile, an anti-monarchy group, Republic, claims credit for the arrest, having filed a report with police. This development highlights the growing pressure on the monarchy to prove its integrity in the face of scandals involving senior royals. The case raises questions about the monarchy's ability to handle internal crises and maintain public confidence. While some view the police's independent action against the king's brother as a positive sign for Britain's constitutional framework, others argue that the royal family must do more to address its image and hold members accountable for their actions. The situation also underscores broader concerns about institutional accountability and transparency in high-profile organizations. Ultimately, Prince Andrew's arrest marks a pivotal moment for the British monarchy, testing its resilience and public perception. As the investigation continues, the outcome could have lasting implications not just for the royal family but for the institution as a whole.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026