Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor Takes UK Police to Court Over Search Warrants in Epstein Investigation

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Former Prince Andrew, now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has launched a High Court challenge against search warrants used by police to search his homes during an investigation linked to his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. The legal action comes months after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office and could affect how evidence obtained during the searches is handled.

The 66-year-old was arrested on February 19, his birthday, and questioned for about 11 hours before being released under investigation. He has not been charged and has consistently denied wrongdoing. The investigation centres on allegations that he shared sensitive government information with Epstein while serving as the UK’s trade envoy.

The warrants being challenged were issued by a judge at the Central Criminal Court on February 18, the day before his arrest. They allowed Thames Valley Police to search properties connected to Andrew at the Sandringham estate and Royal Lodge in Windsor. His lawyers are asking the High Court to determine whether those warrants were lawfully obtained and to quash them.

The case could have important consequences for the wider investigation. If the warrants are found to have been unlawful, questions could arise over whether material obtained during the searches can be used by investigators. However, legal experts have noted that cancelling a warrant does not automatically mean police must surrender all material seized during a search.

A private High Court hearing is scheduled for Thursday. Thames Valley Police has confirmed that its investigation into alleged misconduct in public office is continuing but has declined to discuss the details of the legal proceedings while they remain before the court.

The legal challenge adds another chapter to the long-running fallout from Andrew’s association with Epstein. Andrew was stripped of his royal titles after further revelations about the relationship, while King Charles has publicly said that the law must take its course. Buckingham Palace has also made clear that it will not fund Andrew’s legal challenge, despite the King providing his brother with private financial support.

The case is being closely watched because it represents an unusual legal challenge by a member of the British royal family. It also comes as authorities continue examining information connected to Epstein, meaning Andrew’s attempt to challenge the warrants could become an important early battle over the evidence gathered in the UK investigation