Prince Andrew Arrested on 66th Birthday After Police Raid at Sandringham Home
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been arrested on his 66th birthday following a dramatic police operation at his new residence on the Sandringham Estate, according to reports.
Officers reportedly arrived at Wood Farm, located on the Sandringham Estate, at around 8 a.m. local time. Multiple unmarked police vehicles and plainclothes officers were seen entering the property from both the front and rear entrances.
Allegations of Misconduct
The arrest follows allegations of misconduct in public office. Authorities confirmed they are assessing claims involving the alleged sharing of confidential material with late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
According to reports, emails released by the United States Department of Justice appear to suggest that Mountbatten-Windsor circulated summaries of official visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore during his time as a trade envoy. One message dated November 2010 allegedly shows information forwarded just minutes after he received it from his then special adviser. Another email reportedly referenced investment opportunities connected to reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan’s Helmand Province.
Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied wrongdoing related to his past association with Epstein.
First Arrest Despite Years of Scrutiny
This marks the first time the disgraced royal has been placed under arrest despite years of controversy and accusations tied to Epstein.
The BBC reported that Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright confirmed an official investigation has now been opened into the alleged offence of misconduct in public office.
“It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offence,” Wright said, adding that updates would be provided at the appropriate time.
Royal Response
Mountbatten-Windsor, currently eighth in line to the throne, had been staying at Wood Farm for nearly three weeks after leaving Royal Lodge in Windsor amid renewed scrutiny.
Following the arrest, Charles III issued a statement expressing “deepest concern” and emphasizing that “the law must take its course.” He stated that authorities would have the royal family’s “full and wholehearted support and co-operation” while declining to comment further as the investigation proceeds.
If convicted, Mountbatten-Windsor could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The investigation remains ongoing.
