Earlier this year, Thames Valley Police sought search warrants for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's residences at the Sandringham estate and Royal Lodge in Windsor, west London. On 18/2, a judge at the Old Bailey Central Criminal Court approved this request.

Andrew was arrested on 19/2 on suspicion of misconduct in public office, related to information emerging from files concerning convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. King Charles's brother was released later that day but remained under investigation. He denies any wrongdoing.

Andrew recently asked the High Court to review the legality of the search warrants used by Thames Valley Police, UK media reported on 4/10. The UK Justice Press Office later confirmed Andrew filed a request to quash the search warrants issued by the Old Bailey judge.

Andrew in the back seat of a car leaving a police station in February. Photo: BBC

Andrew in the back seat of a car leaving a police station in February. Photo: BBC

Before considering Andrew's claim, the High Court is scheduled to hold a closed hearing on 8/10 to decide whether documents related to the case should be made public. Thames Valley Police currently oppose public disclosure, fearing it could affect the ongoing investigation.

According to the Daily Telegraph, this marks the first time a member of the British royal family has challenged the legality of criminal proceedings against them since the trial of King Charles I in 1649.

Andrew is the second son of Queen Elizabeth II. He held many important positions and was a rear admiral in the British navy. In 2019, he was asked to cease royal duties, facing strong backlash due to his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein.

Andrew at Windsor Castle in 4/2025. Photo: AFP

Andrew at Windsor Castle in 4/2025. Photo: AFP

Virginia Giuffre, an Epstein victim, said in 2015 she was forced to have sex with Andrew in 2001, when she was 17. Andrew denied the allegations and said he had never met Giuffre. He was stripped of his military ranks and royal titles in 2022, before settling the lawsuit with Giuffre that same year.

He announced his renunciation of British royal titles in 10/2025, always denied any wrongdoing related to Epstein, and expressed regret for their friendship. The US Department of Justice in January released over 3 million pages of documents from the Epstein files, including emails showing Andrew appeared to share internal, sensitive information with Epstein, including reports on diplomacy, trade, and investment.