Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor began his 66th birthday with an unexpected and dramatic development as police arrived at his residence early Thursday morning and took him into custody. The former Duke of York was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, according to statements released by law enforcement. Multiple vehicles believed to be unmarked police cars were reportedly seen entering Wood Farm on the Sandringham Estate at approximately 8 a.m. The estate, located in Norfolk and privately owned by Charles III, has served as Andrew’s residence since he relocated there earlier this month from Royal Lodge in Windsor. The timing of the arrest—coinciding with his birthday—immediately intensified public and media attention surrounding the case, which unfolds against the backdrop of renewed scrutiny connected to his past association with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Thames Valley Police confirmed that a “man in his sixties” had been arrested in Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office but stated they would not be identifying the individual in accordance with national guidance. In a formal statement, the force said officers were also conducting searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the ongoing investigation. The arrested man remains in custody. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and objectivity of the investigation, noting the substantial public interest in the case. Authorities cautioned media outlets and the public to exercise care in reporting, given that the matter is now active and subject to legal safeguards designed to prevent contempt of court. While officials stopped short of naming Andrew, the convergence of details—including location, age, and timing—quickly led to widespread reporting identifying him as the individual in question.

The arrest follows renewed examination of Andrew’s historic links to Epstein, whose criminal activities and network of high-profile associations have continued to generate fallout years after his death in 2019. Recently released files connected to Epstein reportedly included additional imagery and documentation that reignited debate about Andrew’s past interactions with the convicted sex offender. Andrew has consistently and strongly denied all allegations of wrongdoing. Previously, he settled a civil lawsuit brought in the United States by Virginia Giuffre without an admission of liability and stepped back from public royal duties in 2019 following intense criticism of his handling of the controversy. The Metropolitan Police had earlier concluded there was insufficient evidence to pursue charges against him, but Thames Valley Police have now opened a fresh investigation into separate allegations, including claims that a woman was trafficked to the United Kingdom for a sexual encounter and accusations that Andrew may have shared sensitive information with Epstein during his tenure as the UK’s special trade envoy.

Misconduct in public office is a serious common law offense in England and Wales. According to the Crown Prosecution Service, the charge concerns willful neglect or abuse of the responsibilities entrusted to a holder of public office. The alleged misconduct must be sufficiently serious to amount to an abuse of the public’s trust and must be directly connected to the powers or duties of the office held. The maximum penalty for the offense is life imprisonment, though sentencing outcomes vary widely depending on the specific facts of a case. Legal experts note that prosecutions for misconduct in public office are relatively rare and often complex, involving intricate questions about the scope of official duties and the threshold for criminal culpability. The Court of Appeal has previously stressed that the offense should be applied narrowly, reflecting its gravity and the potential constitutional implications when applied to individuals who have held prominent public roles.

The royal family has previously issued statements expressing concern about the allegations connected to Andrew. Earlier this month, King Charles released a statement emphasizing his “profound concern” regarding ongoing claims related to his brother’s conduct. The statement underscored that while the specific allegations were matters for Andrew to address personally, the royal household would cooperate with law enforcement authorities if approached. It also reiterated sympathy for victims of abuse. William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales similarly expressed that they were “deeply concerned” by continuing revelations and emphasized that their thoughts remained with victims. Andrew’s relocation from Royal Lodge to Sandringham earlier this year was widely interpreted as part of an effort to reduce public visibility amid ongoing scrutiny, though official statements characterized it as a private residential change supported by King Charles.

Political leaders have also weighed in. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently stated in a televised interview that anyone with relevant information related to Epstein’s activities should come forward, emphasizing that no individual is above the law. He underscored the longstanding principle that equality before the law is foundational to the United Kingdom’s justice system. As the investigation proceeds, Andrew’s legal team has not yet issued a detailed public response beyond reiterating his longstanding denials of wrongdoing. The case now enters a legally sensitive phase, with potential implications not only for Andrew personally but also for the broader public discourse surrounding accountability, institutional responsibility, and the enduring consequences of the Epstein scandal. Authorities have indicated that updates will be provided as appropriate, while reminding the public that the presumption of innocence applies unless and until charges are formally brought and proven in court.