UK police raid Royal Lodge and Sandringham homes of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as investigators examine documents, emails, and flight logs tied to Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking operations

Police have intensified their investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, with searches continuing at his Royal Lodge home as authorities dig deeper into allegations linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking operation.

The former prince’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office has opened the door for detectives to explore possible sexual offences, raising serious questions about his conduct while serving as a UK trade envoy.

Andrew, 66, was taken into custody at Aylsham Police Station in Norfolk on his birthday and spent more than 11 hours being processed like any other suspect.

Images of a red-eyed, visibly shaken Andrew leaving the station underscored the dramatic fall from grace of a senior royal, marking one of the most sensational events in recent British history.

Police Raids Sweep Sandringham and Windsor

The coordinated police operation extended to both Sandringham and Windsor.

Early morning, a convoy of unmarked vehicles arrived at Wood Farm, a property on the Sandringham estate where Andrew has been staying.

Simultaneously, Thames Valley Police launched a detailed search of Royal Lodge, his former residence in Windsor Great Park, where many of his belongings remain following his recent departure.

Police sources indicate that investigators are meticulously combing through emails, documents, and digital devices that could reveal whether Andrew shared sensitive information with Epstein during his decade as a UK trade envoy.

This includes official reports from international visits and potential investment opportunities, raising concerns about the misuse of public office.

Legal Experts Highlight Possible Sexual Offences

Top UK lawyers have signaled that Andrew’s arrest could lead to a broader investigation into alleged sexual crimes.

Marcus Johnstone, a criminal defence lawyer specializing in sex offences, told the press that investigators now have the opportunity to gather evidence concerning allegations that Andrew may have facilitated access for Epstein’s victims to Buckingham Palace.

Richard Scorer, head of abuse law at Slater and Gordon, noted that if prosecutors build a convincing case showing that Andrew misused his official position to engage with underage women, he could face prosecution.

The severity of the alleged offences, combined with Andrew’s high-profile status, makes this one of the rare instances where a senior royal is formally scrutinized under criminal law.

Gordon Brown Submits Evidence on Sex Trafficking

Former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has actively contributed to the investigation, submitting a detailed memorandum to multiple police forces, including the Metropolitan, Surrey, Sussex, and Thames Valley police.

His report focuses on flight logs from Epstein’s private jet, infamously known as the “Lolita Express,” which landed in the UK roughly 90 times, transporting girls and women potentially for trafficking purposes.

Brown described these flights as “by far the biggest scandal of all” and urged law enforcement to ensure a thorough investigation into Andrew’s potential involvement.

This high-level political push underscores the gravity of the allegations and the wide-reaching implications for the monarchy.

Historic Impact on the Royal Family

Andrew’s arrest has triggered a constitutional and public relations crisis not seen in centuries.

King Charles III issued an unprecedented personal statement expressing “deepest concern” and affirming that the law must take its course.

The King emphasized full cooperation with the investigation while maintaining the monarchy’s ongoing duties to the public.

The case has sparked speculation about who else in royal circles may have known of Andrew’s activities, including his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson and daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

Epstein-related correspondence reportedly references these family members, suggesting that investigators may seek further testimony.

Timeline of Arrest and Searches

• Thursday morning: Officers arrested Andrew at Wood Farm, Sandringham, on suspicion of misconduct in public office.
• Simultaneous raid: Royal Lodge in Windsor was searched for documents and belongings remaining from his tenure there.
• Evening: Andrew was released under investigation after more than 11 hours in custody, as searches continued.
• Next day: Investigations and searches resumed, with ongoing examination of emails and devices tied to Epstein files.

Norfolk Police confirmed their support for the investigation led by Thames Valley Police, while Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and objectivity throughout the inquiry.

International Reactions

News of the arrest made global headlines.

US President Donald Trump described it as “very sad for the royal family” while praising King Charles.

Meanwhile, US law enforcement, including the FBI, has reportedly been monitoring Andrew’s association with Epstein for over a decade, adding another layer of complexity to the case.

What’s Next?

Investigators are expected to continue searching Andrew’s properties, analyzing digital records, and interviewing potential witnesses.

The Crown Prosecution Service will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to charge him with misconduct in public office or any sexual offences.

Given the historical precedent, any prosecution could take months, if not years, and could involve testimonies from royal family members, former aides, and associates of Epstein.

Public scrutiny will remain intense, and the unfolding case could prompt broader reforms regarding accountability for senior figures in public office, especially those with royal connections.

Summary

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office represents a historic moment for the British monarchy.

Police investigations focus on his links to Jeffrey Epstein and alleged misuse of his trade envoy position.

With evidence submitted by Gordon Brown and scrutiny from UK and US law enforcement, the inquiry has major legal and constitutional implications.

King Charles has pledged full cooperation with authorities, emphasizing that no one is above the law.

As searches continue and investigators examine emails, documents, and flight logs, the possibility of sexual offence charges looms, marking a watershed moment in royal accountability.