Why was former Prince Andrew arrested by UK police?

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Elizabeth MelimopoulosFebruary 20, 2026 at 12:02 AM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

In February 2026, former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested in the UK and questioned by Thames Valley Police regarding allegations of misconduct in public office and his links to Jeffrey Epstein. He was later released under investigation, becoming the first senior British royal in modern history to face arrest. The arrest follows renewed scrutiny of Andrew's decade as a UK trade envoy and the release of Epstein-related documents by the US Department of Justice, some suggesting he shared official reports with Epstein. While not charged with a crime, the arrest is considered a significant event for the royal family, marking a culmination of Andrew's public disgrace.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Camille Nedelec 30% Falklands War 40% Prince Philip 40% Royal Navy 40% United States Department of Justice 50% Queen Elizabeth II 50% Thames Valley Police 60% King Charles 60% UK ×270% Jeffrey Epstein ×580% Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor ×9100%

Keywords

prince andrew 100% arrest 90% jeffrey epstein 80% misconduct in public office 70% uk police 70% investigation 60% royal family 60% sex offender 50% trade envoy 40%