Prince Andrew Faces Police Probe Over Alleged Inappropriate Behavior at Royal Ascot

The police investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has expanded to include allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a woman at the 2002 Royal Ascot event, according to verified reporting from multiple British news outlets. The development comes as Thames Valley Police broaden their probe into the former Duke of York, already under scrutiny for misconduct in public office linked to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.

Investigation Widens Beyond Epstein Allegations

Thames Valley Police confirmed earlier this month that their investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor—initially focused on potential misconduct in public office—had widened to examine &quot. a number of aspects of alleged misconduct," including possible sexual offenses, and corruption. The latest allegation, reported by The Times and corroborated by The Guardian and BBC, centers on an incident at Royal Ascot in Berkshire, where Mountbatten-Windsor was photographed alongside his daughter, Princess Beatrice, and his brother, now King Charles III.

While details of the alleged incident remain limited, sources indicate it occurred during Queen Elizabeth II’s attendance at the event in 2002. Police have not disclosed whether the claim was reported at the time or surfaced more recently as part of their broader inquiry. The investigation follows the release of the Epstein files by the U.S. Department of Justice, which reignited scrutiny over Mountbatten-Windsor’s role as the UK’s special trade envoy between 2001 and 2011.

Police Appeal for Witnesses

In a statement, Thames Valley Police reiterated their commitment to treating any potential victims with "care, sensitivity, and respect," urging witnesses to come forward. The force has previously appealed for "victim survivors" to contact them, emphasizing that information would be handled confidentially. Detectives are reportedly reviewing material seized during a week-long search of Mountbatten-Windsor’s former 30-room Royal Lodge mansion in Windsor, as well as his Norfolk residence.

Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright, overseeing the investigation, stated earlier this month that the probe was "continuing" without providing further specifics. The legal definition of misconduct in public office encompasses a broad range of offenses, including financial misconduct, corruption, sexual misconduct, and conflicts of interest. Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining his innocence throughout the proceedings.

Broader Context: A Life in Scrutiny

Mountbatten-Windsor’s public standing has deteriorated significantly since his arrest in February 2026 on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Following his release under investigation, he was stripped of his HRH title and evicted from Royal Lodge, leaving him in a secluded existence. Reports suggest he has withdrawn from public life, with some accounts describing his current situation as "empty," though these claims have not been independently verified.

The latest allegations add to the mounting pressure on the British monarchy, which has faced criticism over its handling of the scandal. While King Charles III and other senior royals have distanced themselves from Mountbatten-Windsor, the investigation’s expansion underscores the enduring fallout from his association with Epstein and the broader questions surrounding his conduct while in public office.

What Comes Next

Police have not set a timeline for the conclusion of their investigation, though the inclusion of the Royal Ascot allegation suggests a deliberate effort to explore all potential lines of inquiry. Legal experts have noted that misconduct in public office cases can take years to resolve, particularly when complex evidentiary reviews are involved. For now, the focus remains on gathering witness statements and analyzing the seized materials.

Potential victims or witnesses with information about the alleged incident at Royal Ascot or other matters under investigation are encouraged to contact Thames Valley Police through their dedicated reporting channels.