Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, has been released from police custody following a nearly 12-hour interrogation that marks an unprecedented moment in modern British royal history. The 66-year-old was photographed slouched in the back seat of a vehicle, attempting to evade cameras as he departed Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk on Thursday evening, February 19, 2026.
The “Misconduct” Allegations
Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested by Thames Valley Police early Thursday morning—on his 66th birthday—at his new residence at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate. The arrest was strictly on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a serious common law offense that carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
The investigation stems from the explosive release of millions of Jeffrey Epstein files by the U.S. Justice Department in late January. Documents surfaced suggesting that between 2001 and 2011, while serving as the UK’s special representative for international trade, Mountbatten-Windsor forwarded highly sensitive government intelligence to Epstein. Alleged leaks included confidential briefings on investment opportunities in Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and the reconstruction of Helmand province in Afghanistan.
Police and Palace Response
Following his release, Thames Valley Police confirmed that the former prince has been “released under investigation,” meaning he is free to go without immediate restrictions while detectives continue to build their case. Police also confirmed that searches at his Norfolk property have concluded, though investigations at his former residence, the Royal Lodge in Berkshire, are reportedly ongoing.
The royal family’s response has been swift and firm, reflecting the severe erosion of the former prince’s standing. King Charles III, who officially stripped his brother of his remaining titles and honors last October, issued a stark statement via Buckingham Palace:
> “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.”
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The Road Ahead
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing regarding his relationship with the disgraced financier. However, with anti-monarchy groups actively filing police complaints based on the new paper trail, the former royal finds himself fighting a legal battle that extends far beyond his past civil settlements.
