Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor legal challenge over police search warrants
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Prince Andrew, has taken legal action against Thames Valley Police over search warrants used in raids on his homes as part of a criminal investigation linked to Jeffrey Epstein. A London-based judge ruled that the warrants were unlawful after police accepted a legal error, but said the ruling does not bring the investigation to an end. Police have retained material seized during the searches.
Last known state
A London judge has ruled that the search warrants used to raid Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's homes were unlawful after Thames Valley Police accepted a legal error, but the criminal investigation continues and police have retained the seized material.
5 sources · 5 reports · Last updated 11 Oct 2026
Latest development
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 were unlawful after police accepted a legal error, though the judge said the ruling does not end the investigation.
- 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 challenge the lawfulness of the search warrants used in the February raids on his residences.
- Key development
He was granted permission to bring the judicial review challenge, with a private High Court hearing scheduled.
Earlier coverage
- UK ex-prince Andrew search warrants quashed after police accept legal error London-based judge says error 'does not bring investigation to an end' as police probe disgraced former royal.
- Warrants used to search Andrew's homes were unlawful, court says A criminal investigation into the former prince continues and police have retained material seized from his homes.
- 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.