Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew) has become the first senior member of the British royal family to be arrested in modern history. His arrest comes as a result of his involvement with Jeffrey Epstein and follows the recent release in the U.S. of voluminous files on l’Affaire Epstein.
The arrest occurred on his 66th birthday following an investigation by the Thames Valley Police. He was detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office, a serious offense related to allegations that he shared confidential government information with Jeffrey Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy.
While this is an unprecedented moment for a modern senior royal, there are important distinctions regarding other family members and historical figures.
Modern Comparison: Convictions vs. Arrests:
Before this event, other royals faced the legal system, but they were not formally arrested or taken into police custody in this manner:
Princess Anne: In 2002, she became the first member of the modern royal family to have a criminal record. She pleaded guilty to a charge under the Dangerous Dogs Act after her dog bit two children. She was also convicted of speeding in 2001. However, she was issued a court summons rather than being arrested and held in custody.
Minor Royals: Distant relatives or non-senior members have occasionally faced police intervention for minor offenses (like traffic violations), but none of the “inner circle” had ever been detained as part of a high-stakes criminal investigation until now.
Historical Context:
If we look back centuries, the “first” royal to be arrested is usually considered to be:
King Charles I: He was famously taken into custody in 1647 during the English Civil War, later tried for treason, and executed in 1649.
