Prince Andrew arrested on 66th birthday over Epstein file revelations

Scenes resembling a crime thriller unfolded early on the morning of February 19, 2026, outside Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate, the temporary residence of the former Prince Andrew. On his 66th birthday, the brother of King Charles was arrested for misconduct in public office during a massive operation by British authorities. Dozens of police vehicles and plainclothes agents descended on the property, bringing specialized equipment to seize digital data and documents related to the infamous Epstein scandal.

This move represents the culmination of investigations triggered by the recent release of new evidence from the "Epstein Files." These revelations implicate Andrew in the transmission of confidential documents to the convicted financier, while raising new, grave allegations regarding the sexual abuse of minors and breach of duty.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office: Live updates https://t.co/QMkAV2oZlV

— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) February 19, 2026

Massive operation coordinated by the NCA

The investigation is not merely a local affair but a coordinated effort led by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in collaboration with at least six police forces, including the Metropolitan Police and Norfolk Constabulary. Authorities are focusing on two critical areas: investigators seized laptops and storage devices to scrutinize emails dating back to Andrew's tenure as the UK trade envoy. It is alleged he provided the late convicted sex offender with exclusive information regarding investments in regions under the former prince's jurisdiction. Furthermore, members of his personal security detail who accompanied him during his 2010 visits to Epstein's New York apartment have already been questioned.

Isolated and under surveillance

The former prince has been living at Wood Farm for the past three weeks in a state of self-imposed isolation. Meanwhile, his projected permanent residence, Marsh Farm, is being fortified with high-security fencing and state-of-the-art surveillance systems ahead of his scheduled move in April. Despite his consistent denial of any wrongdoing, the legal noose has tightened significantly.

The stance of Charles and Buckingham: 'Deep concern' from William and Kate

For the first time, the Palace's stance is definitive and stern. King Charles has reportedly given the "green light" for full cooperation with the authorities, sending a clear message that no member of the family is above the law. Simultaneously, leaks from the inner circles of Prince William and Kate Middleton speak of "deep concern." There is a growing sense that the Andrew case is causing irreparable damage to the monarchy's prestige at a time when public attention is shifting exclusively toward the victims of the abuse.

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