Police arrived at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk on Thursday, February 19, 2026, the former Prince Andrew’s 66th birthday, following the latest release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein scandal. Officers were seen near Wood Farm Cottage, where Andrew is currently residing temporarily, according to reports.
The police presence occurred after further files pertaining to Epstein were made public, adding to the scrutiny surrounding Andrew’s past association with the convicted sex offender. The timing of the visit, coinciding with his birthday, has drawn attention from British media outlets.
Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor vacated Royal Lodge, his previous residence, earlier this month, moving to the Sandringham Estate as Marsh Farm, his intended permanent home, undergoes renovations. The move from Royal Lodge, which had turn into a symbol of the controversy surrounding his relationship with Epstein, was expedited by the recent disclosures, according to the BBC. Buckingham Palace announced the move in October, concurrent with the removal of his title of prince.
The Sandringham Estate is privately owned by King Charles III, who is covering the costs of his brother’s accommodation. Sources close to the Royal Family have indicated a desire to keep Andrew out of the public eye, while acknowledging a duty of care towards him as a member of the family.
The latest release of Epstein files included photographs that have been described as questionable and new allegations linking Andrew to Epstein, according to CBC News. The eviction from Royal Lodge is seen as an attempt to further isolate Andrew, but there is no indication the controversy surrounding his association with Epstein will diminish.
Pressure continues to mount on Andrew to provide testimony in the United States regarding his relationship with Epstein, though he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. The New York Times reported that Andrew was stripped of his titles last year and asked to leave Royal Lodge due to growing concerns over his links to Epstein.
Local residents near Wood Farm Cottage have expressed reservations about Andrew’s relocation to the area, with some suggesting he should reside in a more secluded location. One resident told reporters that the presence of the press was disruptive to the quiet village, and a more isolated property would have been preferable.
The King’s provision of a home in Norfolk is intended to be a decisive change, but the ongoing scrutiny and police activity suggest the situation remains unresolved. No statement has been released by Buckingham Palace regarding the police visit to Sandringham.
