Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, is challenging search warrants used to raid his residences during an investigation into allegations that he shared sensitive government information with Jeffrey Epstein.
The former prince has been granted permission to ask Britain's High Court to quash the warrants, which authorized searches of Marsh Farm on the Sandringham Estate and Royal Lodge in Windsor. Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested on February 19, 2026, his 66th birthday, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, questioned for about 11 hours and released under investigation. He has not been charged.
A ruling in his favor could force police and prosecutors to confront how material gathered during the searches can be used as the criminal investigation continues.
Even if the High Court quashes the warrants, evidence obtained during the searches would not automatically be excluded under English law. Any future prosecution could trigger a separate fight over whether that material should be admitted, while police could continue pursuing the wider investigation.
The first High Court hearing is scheduled for October 8, 2026, before Mr Justice Hilliard. Thames Valley Police is asking the court to restrict access to documents filed in the case, citing the continuing criminal investigation. The broader challenge to the warrants will proceed after that dispute is addressed.
The police investigation stems from material released in the Jeffrey Epstein files concerning Mountbatten-Windsor's time as Britain's special representative for international trade and investment.
Mountbatten-Windsor served as the country's trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. Documents released this year raised allegations that he shared sensitive government information with Epstein while carrying out his government role.
Police are investigating whether Mountbatten-Windsor abused his former public position by disclosing government information to Epstein while serving as Britain's trade envoy.
Andrew stepped back from public duties in 2019 following years of scrutiny over his relationship with Epstein and criticism surrounding his BBC interview about their friendship. He has denied wrongdoing connected to Epstein and has said he regrets the relationship.
King Charles III stripped Andrew of his remaining royal titles and honors in 2025, leaving him formally known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor.
Thames Valley Police says its misconduct in public office investigation remains active while the High Court proceedings over the search warrants continue.
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