Former Prince Andrew Arrested in Jeffrey Epstein Scandal: Why U.S. Accountability Remains Elusive in 2026

February 20, 2026 – By Marjorie | Qalamkaar

The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — the man once known as Prince Andrew — on his 66th birthday has sent shockwaves around the world. British police took him into custody over suspected misconduct in public office tied to newly released Jeffrey Epstein files. It's a stark moment that underlines a painful truth: even members of royal families aren't above the law in the UK. Yet across the Atlantic, many are asking why similar accountability feels so out of reach for powerful Americans connected to the same scandal.

Former Prince Andrew (left) with Jeffrey Epstein. Their long association has now led to serious legal consequences in 2026. (Source: BBC)

On February 19, 2026, authorities arrested Mountbatten-Windsor at his countryside residence. He spent hours in questioning before being released under investigation. Reports point to allegations that he shared sensitive government information with Epstein during his time as a UK trade envoy. King Charles III quickly distanced the monarchy, stating clearly that “the law must take its course.” It's a historic moment — the first arrest of a British royal in centuries.

Why the U.S. Response Feels So Different

While Britain and parts of Europe move forward with independent investigations, the picture in America looks far more complicated. Critics point to politicization of the justice system under President Trump, who has called ongoing Epstein victim demands a “hoax” and pushed to move past the issue entirely.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor pictured shortly after his arrest on February 19, 2026. (Source: PBS NewsHour)

No evidence has emerged of criminal wrongdoing by President Trump in his past ties to Epstein. The same goes for other prominent names like billionaire Les Wexner, who recently gave a closed-door deposition, or figures such as Bill Clinton and Bill Gates. Yet victims and advocates continue to demand a fuller accounting — not just prosecutions, but a real investigation into how Epstein's network operated for so long among the elite.

Les Wexner, whose financial ties helped sustain Epstein's lifestyle, faced congressional questioning in 2026. (Source: Fortune/AP)

“Great Britain is holding its powerful and privileged to account. The United States of America should do the same.”
— Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA)

Epstein survivors have welcomed the UK developments. One prominent voice, Marina Lacerda, called it “amazing” progress that victims have long fought for, while expressing frustration that the U.S. seems stuck. Lawyer Spencer Kuvin, representing multiple survivors, emphasized that the real breakthrough is seeing powerful men finally held to account — no matter their status.

President Donald Trump has described himself as “totally exonerated” in Epstein-related documents. (Source: NPR/Getty Images)

What Happens Next?

The Epstein files, forced into the open by congressional pressure, have already sparked probes in Norway, Poland, and beyond. Every new development keeps the spotlight on whether the U.S. justice system can operate independently when the stakes involve the highest levels of power.

Sources & Further Reading (Authoritative Links):

• Original CNN Analysis
• Al Jazeera: Calls for U.S. Accountability
• PBS NewsHour Coverage
• CBS News Report

Related Posts on Qalamkaar

• The Initial Epstein Files Release: What We Learned in Late 2025
• Trump's Justice Department: Key Changes and Controversies
• Global Elite Accountability: 2026 Trends to Watch

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