Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, has been arrested, the BBC reports. He was taken into custody on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
Police arrived at his Sandringham home, Wood Farm, around 8 a.m. local time on Thursday. The BBC was first to report the development.
According to British news outlets, at least six unmarked cars carrying eight plainclothes officers — each equipped with police‑issue laptops — were seen driving into Wood Farm. The operation unfolded on what is Andrew’s 66th birthday.
One vehicle drove down the front drive while the other five entered through the back of the five‑bedroom farmhouse.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that the former prince has been arrested. It marks the first time the disgraced royal, who has faced numerous allegations over his ties to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has been taken into custody. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, arrested on his 66th birthday
Police have been conducting searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk simultaneously with Andrew’s arrest.
According to the BBC, Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said: “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation 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,” he continued. “We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time.”
Prince Andrew has been living at Wood Farm for nearly three weeks. He was forced to move out of his home at the Royal Lodge in Windsor after new details about his connection to Jeffrey Epstein became public. He has been seen only once — last Thursday — since relocating to the Sandringham property.
This is a developing story.
