Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor legal challenge over police search warrants
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, has filed legal action challenging the lawfulness of police search warrants used to search his homes ahead of his arrest in February as part of a criminal investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein. A UK court ruled that the warrants were unlawful, though police have retained material seized and the criminal investigation continues. The outcome could affect whether evidence from the searches can be used in any prosecution.
Current state
A UK court has ruled that the search warrants used to search Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's homes ahead of his February arrest were unlawful. Thames Valley Police have retained the seized material, and the criminal investigation into his links to Jeffrey Epstein continues, leaving uncertain whether evidence from the unlawful searches can be used in any prosecution.
5 sources · 5 reports · Updated 8 Oct 2026
What changed
A UK court ruled the search warrants used to search Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's homes were unlawful, while police retention of seized material created new uncertainty over whether it could be used in the continuing investigation.
Developments
- Key development
A London judge ruled that the search warrants used in the February raids on his homes were unlawful.
- Earlier development
On February 19, Thames Valley Police arrested Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office over his links to Jeffrey Epstein, conducted searches of his residences using warrants, and later released him under investigation.
- Key development
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor filed a High Court claim against Thames Valley Police to quash the search warrants used in the February raids on his residences.
- Key development
He was granted permission to bring the judicial review challenge.
Current story coverage
Earlier coverage
- King's funding for Andrew not to be used for legal action against police Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is taking action over search warrants issued ahead of his arrest in February.
- Former Prince Andrew files legal action challenging warrants that led to searches of his homes If the court rules in his favor, it could prevent authorities from using evidence found during the searches in any prosecution.