Thames Valley Police criminal probe into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor continues despite High Court ruling that home raids were unlawful
From the Newshound archive · first published 9 October 2026.
A High Court judge has confirmed Thames Valley Police's criminal investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains active, even after both sides agreed the search warrants used to raid his Sandringham and Royal Lodge homes in February were unlawful. Mr Justice Hilliard ruled a "significant error" was made in applying for the warrants, rendering them, the searches, and all material seized during them unlawful. Andrew is now fighting a separate battle to stop police retaining that evidence, with a private hearing set for 2027. King Charles will reportedly not fund his brother's legal action.
Police acknowledged the Old Bailey judge should never have approved the warrants, which were used the day after Andrew was arrested on his 66th birthday.
Andrew was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office over allegations he shared sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as the UK's trade envoy.
Legal commentators are calling Thursday's ruling only a 'moral victory' — Andrew could remain in limbo for months before learning whether he will face charges.