Following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office, attention now turns to what happens next under UK law.
Thames Valley Police confirmed that a man in his sixties from Norfolk was arrested as part of an ongoing investigation and remains in custody. Authorities have not announced any formal charges, and the investigation is active.
So what does the legal process look like from here?
Custody and Questioning
After an arrest in the UK, a suspect can be held for questioning. In most cases, police may detain someone for up to 24 hours without charge. That period can be extended in certain circumstances, particularly in complex investigations, but only with proper legal authorization.
During this time, investigators conduct interviews, review evidence, and determine whether further action is warranted.
Possible Outcomes
Once initial questioning concludes, several outcomes are possible:
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Release without charge, if insufficient evidence exists.
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Release on bail, meaning the individual may be freed while investigations continue, often under certain conditions.
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Formal charges, if prosecutors determine there is sufficient evidence to proceed.
Any charging decision in England and Wales is typically made in consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), which assesses whether there is both sufficient evidence and a realistic prospect of conviction.
What Is "Misconduct in Public Office"?
Misconduct in public office is a common law offense in the UK. It generally applies when a public official is alleged to have abused their position or acted improperly while carrying out official duties.
Convictions require prosecutors to prove serious wrongdoing connected to a public role. Being arrested on suspicion of the offense does not equate to guilt.
Contempt of Court Considerations
Police have cautioned that the case is now active. Under UK law, public commentary that could prejudice legal proceedings may raise contempt of court concerns. For that reason, officials have limited what they can disclose at this stage.
What We Know - and What We Don't
Authorities have confirmed:
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An arrest was made.
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Searches were conducted at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire.
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The investigation relates to alleged misconduct in public office.
Authorities have not:
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Announced charges.
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Released detailed evidence.
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Provided a timeline for next steps.
As of February 19, 2026, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains in custody while the investigation continues. Any further developments - including potential charges or release - will depend on the findings of police and prosecutors.
For now, the case enters a procedural phase, where legal standards - not public reaction - will determine what comes next.
