Former Prince Andrew’s situation is getting worse by the day, and a clear example of that is his recent arrest. On February 19, 2026, Andrew was arrested under suspicion of misconduct in public office, that too on his 66th birthday.
Recent allegations suggest that Andrew allegedly revealed important trade documents to Epstein while he was a trade envoy for the UK. This is why the Thames Valley Police began an investigation, resulting in this arrest.
While the ex-Prince may have been released from custody, police are thoroughly searching Royal Lodge, his former home, according to the BBC. He was kept in custody for some time and will most likely be called again later.
This is devastating for the British royal image, and the burn will be felt by all its members. Though at first, King Charles refrained from commenting on his disgraced brother, he later provided a clear statement.
🚨 BREAKING: Prince Andrew arrested TODAY on his 66th birthday for misconduct in public office – tied to leaking secrets to Epstein while UK trade envoy. Epstein files keep delivering.
Justice catching up, one royal at a time. No one above the law.
⚖️ #EpsteinFiles… pic.twitter.com/VjfZmWeWjm
— Prince Carlton ⚡️🇺🇸 (@_PrinceCarlton_) February 19, 2026
The monarch completely cut to the chase and wrote, “I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office. 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.”
He further added, “In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation.”
Though the king has expressed his opinions, it is Prince William and Princess Kate, whose reaction matters more.
Prince William is the future king and heir to the throne, so undoubtedly, he is affected by all this bad press the most. Apparently, William never really got along with his uncle, as reported by The List.
This stemmed from the fact that Andrew was not supportive of Kate and made comments about her in the past. Thus, when King Charles decided to strip Andrew of his title, William was very happy with the decision.
There are also reports that he became instrumental in the move, because Charles “stalled, he made excuses, and he worried far more about Andrew’s feelings than the monarchy’s image,” as revealed by a palace source.
The newest Royals, Prince William & Princess Kate, are coming out fully in support of victims of the Epstein scandal, including implicitly against Uncle Andrew, in a refreshing turn of events at the Palace that heralds a new Firm.
— Charles @ Victoria (@CharlesVic50) February 9, 2026
A spokesperson for the prince and princess also came forward with a statement from the couple regarding the victims of the Epstein case. They revealed, “I can confirm the Prince and Princess have been deeply concerned by the continuing revelations. Their thoughts remain focused on the victims.”
An arrest of a senior member of the royal family is not a small matter, and it will likely negatively impact their reputation even more. They clearly need to manage this situation and tread carefully, before more issues threaten their position.
