This morning, the Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of Andrew Albert Christian Edward Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office.

The 66-year-old, who formerly held the style and title of His Royal Highness The Duke of York, was taken into custody at Wood Farm, his residence on the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk, England. 

Police activity was observed at the property earlier in the morning. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has resided at Wood Farm since he departed from Royal Lodge in Windsor in early February 2026.

In a statement, Thames Valley Police said:

“Thames Valley Police has opened an investigation into the offence of misconduct in public office.

As part of the investigation, we have today (19/2) arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk. 

The man remains in police custody at this time.
We will not be naming the arrested man, as per national guidance. Please also remember that this case is now active so care should be taken with any publication to avoid being in contempt of court.”

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said the force had opened the investigation following a “thorough assessment” and would provide updates “at the appropriate time.”

The offence of misconduct in public office is a common law offence in England and Wales. According to guidance from the Crown Prosecution Service, prosecutors must show that a public officer, acting as such, wilfully neglected a duty or wilfully misconducted themselves to such a degree as to amount to an abuse of the public’s trust.

Andrew, the younger brother of His Majesty King Charles III of the United Kingdom, stepped back from public duties in 2019 and no longer carries out official engagements.

In a written statement issued following news of the arrest, His Majesty the King said:

“I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.
In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.

Let me state clearly: the law must take its course.

As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.

Charles R.”

Under UK law, the reigning monarch cannot be prosecuted. That immunity does not extend to other members of the Royal Family, who are subject to the ordinary criminal law.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing.