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London – Former Prince Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the younger brother of King Charles III, was arrested Thursday, February 19, 2026, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday, intensifying scrutiny surrounding his past associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Police executed searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk as part of the investigation, according to statements released by Thames Valley Police.

The arrest follows a thorough assessment of a complaint submitted by the anti-monarchy group Republic, alleging the sharing of confidential material with Epstein, as revealed in recently disclosed U.S. Government files. Authorities are also examining separate allegations that Epstein sought to facilitate a sexual encounter between the former prince and another woman, brought to light in recent weeks. This investigation is unfolding alongside several other inquiries by different police forces across the United Kingdom related to Epstein’s activities.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his sixties from Norfolk, but declined to name him, citing national guidelines. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright stated the investigation is focused on alleged misconduct in public office and emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and objectivity of the process, given the significant public interest in the case. “Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office,” Wright said in a statement.

King Charles III responded to the news with a statement expressing his “deepest concern” over the arrest. “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,” the King said, adding that “the law must take its course.”

Background: The Epstein Connection and Royal Scrutiny

Mountbatten-Windsor’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein has been a source of prolonged controversy. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing concerning Epstein, stating he regrets the friendship, but has largely remained silent since the release of the U.S. Government files. These files reportedly demonstrate the former prince flew on Epstein’s private jet in 2000, a detail that has fueled public criticism and legal scrutiny. Reports indicate that prior to his arrest, Mountbatten-Windsor had temporarily relocated to a property on the Sandringham Estate while renovations were underway at Marsh Farm, his intended permanent residence.

The arrest comes after King Charles III initiated a formal process in October 2025 to remove Prince Andrew’s royal titles and honors. A statement from Buckingham Palace at the time confirmed that Andrew would henceforth be known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. This decision followed Andrew’s earlier relinquishment of his royal duties, including the title of Duke of York, citing the distraction caused by ongoing allegations. “In discussion with the King and my family immediate and general, we have concluded that the constant accusations against me are detracting from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family,” Andrew said in a previous statement.

Previous Allegations and Legal Settlements

The current investigation builds upon previous allegations of sexual abuse made by Virginia Giuffre, who claimed to be a victim of Jeffrey Epstein. Giuffre’s claims and a photograph featuring her, Ghislaine Maxwell (Epstein’s former girlfriend), and Andrew, have been central to the controversy. In 2022, Andrew reached an out-of-court settlement with Giuffre. As TIME reported, the settlement did not constitute an admission of guilt.

Beyond the Thames Valley Police investigation, several other police forces across the UK are assessing potential links to Epstein’s network. Essex Police is examining flight logs and emails related to Epstein’s private jet using Stansted Airport, while Bedfordshire Police is reviewing Epstein’s use of London Luton Airport. The Metropolitan Police launched a criminal investigation into Peter Mandelson following claims he passed market-sensitive information to Epstein. Surrey Police is seeking information on an allegation of human trafficking and sexual assault dating back to the mid-1990s, and Norfolk Constabulary is reviewing Epstein files. Wiltshire Police is also reviewing its records, and Scotland Yard has indicated a willingness to speak with anyone possessing information about Epstein’s activities.

What Comes Next

The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor marks a significant escalation in the ongoing legal and public scrutiny surrounding his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The investigation is in its early stages, and the former prince remains in police custody. The next procedural step will involve further questioning and the gathering of evidence by Thames Valley Police. The outcome of the investigation could have profound implications for the British monarchy and its public image.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts in the comments below.

La franquicia más exitosa en la historia de la NBA, los Boston Celtics, ha estado en una trayectoria de transformación notable durante casi una década. Este cambio comenzó con la selección de Jaylen Brown en el tercer puesto del draft en 2016, seguido por la elección de Jayson Tatum un año después. Juntos, estos jugadores han logrado devolver a Boston a la cima de la liga tras una temporada desastrosa de 25-57 en 2013-14, que fue el resultado del traspaso de estrellas como Paul Pierce y Kevin Garnett a los Nets de Brooklyn.

A pesar de los retos iniciales tras ese movimiento, las elecciones de draft de Brown y Tatum demostraron ser un acierto a largo plazo. En su primer año, el equipo liderado por Isaiah Thomas logró llegar a las Finales de Conferencia, terminando la temporada regular con un récord de 53-29. Sin embargo, se encontraron con LeBron James en su mejor forma, cayendo en la serie 4-1.

El año siguiente, con Tatum como novato, los Celtics volvieron a enfrentarse a James en las Finales de Conferencia, esta vez perdiendo 4-3 en una serie que se consideró un éxito para el joven jugador. La pareja Brown-Tatum continuó creciendo, llevando al equipo a sus segundas Finales de Conferencia en 2020, donde fueron derrotados por los Miami Heat. En 2022, los Celtics alcanzaron las Finales de la NBA, pero realizaron una dura batalla contra los Golden State Warriors, que se llevaron el título.

El camino hacia el campeonato

Tras varios años de incertidumbre y cambios en la plantilla, los Celtics finalmente se coronaron campeones de la NBA en la temporada 2023-24. Este éxito fue precedido por decisiones difíciles, como el traspaso de Marcus Smart a cambio de Kristaps Porzingis y la adquisición de Jrue Holiday a cambio de Malcolm Brogdon y Robert Williams III. Sin embargo, el desenlace de la temporada 2024-25 fue trágico: la lesión de Jayson Tatum, quien sufrió una ruptura de tendón de Aquiles en las semifinales de conferencia contra los Knicks.

El impacto de esta lesión fue devastador, ya que Tatum se encontraba en medio de una serie competitiva que los Celtics perdían 2-1. La situación se complicó aún más durante el verano, cuando el límite salarial obligó a la franquicia a desmantelar su núcleo campeón. Holiday fue traspasado a los Portland Trail Blazers, y Porzingis se unió a los Atlanta Hawks en un intercambio que aliviaba el peso financiero del equipo, ahorrando casi 180 millones de dólares en impuestos.

Un giro inesperado

A pesar de las adversidades, los Celtics han sorprendido a la liga en la temporada 2025-26. Después de un inicio de 0-3, que marcó su peor comienzo desde 2013-14, se establecieron como contendientes en la Conferencia Este, actualmente ocupando el segundo lugar con un récord de 35-19. Jaylen Brown ha emergido como el líder del equipo, promediando 29,3 puntos, 7 rebotes y 5 asistencias por partido, y se considera un fuerte candidato al MVP.

A medida que avanza la temporada, el equipo ha mostrado una notable cohesión. Brown ha declarado que la transición lleva tiempo, especialmente tras la pérdida de cuatro All-Stars. Sin embargo, han logrado construir un equipo competitivo, con un 85% de sus jugadores provenientes de la G League la temporada pasada. Figuras como Neemias Queta y Jordan Walsh han emergido como contribuyentes clave en el sistema de Joe Mazzulla.

El regreso de Tatum y el futuro del equipo

La recuperación de Jayson Tatum de su grave lesión ha sido más rápida de lo esperado. Se espera que regrese a la acción alrededor del 1 de marzo, justo a tiempo para los playoffs. Su vuelta es crucial, ya que los Celtics buscan reafirmar su estatus como un contendiente legítimo al campeonato.

Además, los jugadores que dejaron la franquicia, como Holiday y Porzingis, no han tenido un rendimiento destacado en sus nuevos equipos, lo que podría favorecer a los Celtics en términos de gestión de plantilla. Mientras tanto, se han realizado movimientos estratégicos como la adquisición de Nikola Vucevic, un pívot que aporta experiencia y habilidades en el tiro exterior.

Hugo González, un rookie que llegó a Boston desde Madrid, ha demostrado su valía en el equipo. Con un net rating excepcional de +17.6, González ha sido una sorpresa positiva, solidificando su lugar en la rotación y contribuyendo en momentos cruciales.

A medida que se acerca la postemporada, los Celtics están bien posicionados para competir por otro anillo, con la esperanza de que el regreso de Tatum impulse al equipo hacia una nueva era de éxito. La combinación de talento joven y experiencia podría ser la fórmula que necesitan para alcanzar nuevamente la gloria en la NBA.

Los aficionados pueden esperar un emocionante desenlace de la temporada, con la expectativa de que el equipo continúe su ascenso. Las opiniones de los seguidores son siempre bienvenidas, así que no dudes en compartir tus pensamientos sobre el futuro de los Celtics y su viaje hacia el título.

In a historic move, Sir Keir Starmer has appointed Dame Antonia Romeo as the new cabinet secretary, making her the first woman to hold the UK’s top civil service position in its 110-year history. The appointment, announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, marks a significant shift in leadership for Whitehall and comes as Starmer seeks to reshape his government team. This appointment of a female cabinet secretary signals a commitment to reform within the civil service, according to the Prime Minister.

Dame Antonia, currently the permanent secretary at the Home Office, will be responsible for advising the Prime Minister and ensuring the effective implementation of government policy. The cabinet secretary plays a crucial role in the British government, sitting alongside the Prime Minister during cabinet meetings and overseeing all civil servants in Great Britain. Starmer emphasized his confidence in Romeo’s ability to drive government reform and deliver on a period of “national renewal.”

A Career in Public Service

Romeo brings a wealth of experience to the role, having held senior positions in multiple government departments, including spells as permanent secretary at the Home Office, International Trade, and the Ministry of Justice. She likewise previously served as the UK’s consul general in New York. Her long track record within the civil service, spanning 25 years, was highlighted by Starmer as a key factor in his decision. The appointment followed a rigorous due diligence process overseen by Baroness Gisela Stuart, the First Civil Service Commissioner.

The Prime Minister stated, “Antonia has shown she is the right person to drive the government to reform and I look forward to working with her to deliver this period of national renewal.” Dame Antonia herself described the appointment as a “huge privilege,” adding, “The Civil Service is a great and remarkable institution, which I love.”

Addressing Past Concerns

The appointment has not been without scrutiny. Multiple complaints regarding Romeo’s management style surfaced during her time as consul general in New York in 2017, including allegations of bullying. Though, a subsequent Cabinet Office inquiry found “no case to answer” regarding these claims. Investigations into allegations relating to her use of expenses also cleared her of wrongdoing. Despite these past concerns, Starmer reportedly was impressed by her ability to “acquire things done,” according to government sources.

Recent reports suggest that Romeo faced media briefings questioning her leadership, but the Civil Service Commission affirmed that she underwent a “comprehensive due diligence process” and possesses an “excellent track record in leadership positions across the civil service.”

Transition from Chris Wormald

Dame Antonia Romeo succeeds Sir Chris Wormald, who left the position earlier this month after just over a year in the role. Wormald’s departure reportedly stemmed from frustrations within Starmer’s team regarding the pace of change within the civil service. This transition underscores Starmer’s commitment to accelerating reforms and modernizing the government’s operational structure.

The appointment of the UK’s first female cabinet secretary represents a landmark moment for the civil service and signals a potential shift in priorities under the Starmer government. The focus now turns to how Romeo will navigate the challenges of implementing policy changes and leading a large and complex organization.

Looking ahead, the coming months will be crucial as Dame Antonia Romeo settles into her new role and begins to implement her vision for the civil service. The effectiveness of her leadership will be closely watched as the government seeks to address pressing national issues and deliver on its policy agenda.

What are your thoughts on this historic appointment? Share your comments below and let us know what changes you’d like to see in the UK civil service.

British police arrested Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on Thursday on suspicion of misconduct in public office, escalating a long-running investigation into his connections with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The arrest, which occurred at Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence at Wood Farm on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, took place on his 66th birthday.

Thames Valley Police confirmed the arrest of a man in his 60s, stating officers were also conducting searches at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk. Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said the force had opened an investigation following a “thorough assessment” and was committed to protecting the “integrity and objectivity” of the inquiry. “We understand the significant public interest in this case and we will provide updates at the appropriate time,” Wright stated.

The arrest follows the release of documents by the U.S. Justice Department relating to Epstein, which prompted a review by Thames Valley Police of allegations that Mountbatten-Windsor shared confidential government information with Epstein. These allegations include claims that a woman was trafficked to the UK by Epstein for a sexual encounter with Mountbatten-Windsor, and that the former prince disclosed sensitive details while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.

King Charles issued a statement expressing “deepest concern” over the arrest and affirming his full support for the police investigation. “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,” the King said. “In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and cooperation.” The Prince and Princess of Wales were reported to endorse the King’s message.

The family of Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who has accused Mountbatten-Windsor of sexual abuse as part of Epstein’s sex trafficking ring – allegations he denies – released a statement welcoming the arrest. “At last. Today, our broken hearts have been lifted at the news that no one is above the law, not even royalty,” said Sky Roberts, Amanda Roberts, Danny Wilson, and Lanette Wilson. “On behalf of our sister, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, we extend our gratitude to the UK’s Thames Valley police for their investigation and arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.”

Mountbatten-Windsor was stripped of his royal titles last October amid growing scrutiny over his association with Epstein. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The Crown Prosecution Service stated it was in close contact with the Metropolitan Police Service and Thames Valley Police and ready to support the investigations if needed.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated earlier on Thursday that “nobody is above the law” when questioned about the possibility of Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest. Former Prime Minister Gordon Brown revealed he had submitted a five-page memorandum to multiple UK police constabularies containing new information related to the case.

The specific allegations under investigation have not been publicly released, but documents released by the U.S. Justice Department reportedly show Mountbatten-Windsor forwarding official reports on visits to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Singapore to Epstein in 2010. One email, dated November 2010, was forwarded to Epstein five minutes after being sent by his special adviser, Amir Patel. Another, sent on Christmas Eve 2010, contained a confidential brief on investment opportunities in Afghanistan.

The whereabouts of Mountbatten-Windsor remain unknown. Neither King Charles nor Buckingham Palace were informed in advance of the arrest, according to reports. Thames Valley Police has not provided a timeline for the investigation.