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London – Former Prince Andrew has been released under investigation following his arrest on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in connection with allegations related to the late Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest, which occurred on his 66th birthday, has sent shockwaves through the British monarchy, prompting a swift and carefully worded statement from King Charles III. The unfolding situation centers on allegations of misconduct in public office and is renewing scrutiny of the royal family’s ties to Epstein, a convicted sex offender.
The arrest comes as a fresh allegation surfaced that Epstein sent a woman to Andrew at the Royal Lodge residence in Windsor in 2010, according to police. Thames Valley Police initiated searches at both the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk and a location in Berkshire, with the search in Norfolk concluding Thursday evening. Authorities have not named the arrested individual, referring only to “a man in his sixties from Norfolk” in official statements. This investigation marks a significant escalation in the ongoing fallout from the Epstein scandal and its implications for the British royal family.
King Charles Responds to Brother’s Arrest
King Charles III issued a statement expressing “deepest concern” over his brother’s arrest. Emphasizing the importance of due process, Charles stated, “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.” He added that “the law must take its course” and affirmed his family’s commitment to their duties despite the ongoing crisis. The King’s decision to personally sign the statement, as noted by NBC News, underscores the gravity of the situation.
Investigation Details and Background
Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright of Thames Valley Police confirmed the opening of an investigation into the allegation of misconduct in public office, acknowledging the significant public interest in the case. Norfolk Police are supporting the investigation, according to reports. Prince Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. The arrest follows years of scrutiny regarding Andrew’s relationship with Epstein and allegations of sexual assault, which he previously settled in 2022 with a payment of approximately $14 million, as reported by The Daily Beast. The source of those funds and the extent of King Charles’s involvement in the decision to settle, are now under increased examination.
A Crisis for the Monarchy
The timing of the arrest, coinciding with Prince Andrew’s birthday, adds another layer of complexity to an already sensitive situation. The monarchy’s popularity has been declining in recent years, particularly following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022. Polling data indicates a drop in public support for the monarchy, with only 51% of Britons considering it “very important” or “quite important” to maintain the institution, a significant decrease from 86% in 1983, according to NBC News. Some observers are drawing parallels between this crisis and the Watergate scandal, questioning what King Charles knew about his brother’s activities and when he knew it.
Members of Congress in the United States have too reacted to the arrest, calling for further investigation into the matter, as reported by Politico.
What to Watch Next
The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge. The focus will likely intensify on the details of the 2010 allegation and the extent of Prince Andrew’s interactions with Epstein. The monarchy faces a challenging period as it navigates this crisis, and the outcome of the investigation could have significant implications for the future of the royal family. The public will be watching closely to see how King Charles manages the situation and whether further revelations come to light.
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