UK police admit illegal warrants in Prince Andrew probe remain active

Police in the United Kingdom have conceded a serious legal mistake regarding search warrants used against former Prince Andrew, yet they insist the probe into his conduct remains active. A judge at London's High Court ruled on Thursday that Thames Valley Police issued those warrants unlawfully under the specific legislation applied. Justice Nicholas Hilliard stated clearly that this error does not stop the investigation or invalidate the entire operation. The force admitted its initial court request was incorrect and agreed the orders must be legally quashed.

Despite the victory for Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in court, officials say work continues. "Legal proceedings are currently ongoing to decide how material seized during the searches will be managed and whether we can lawfully retain it," a Thames Valley Police spokesperson explained. The police are currently fighting to keep evidence they collected while Andrew opposes returning it. This dispute over seized property is expected to drag on until next year.

The former royal was arrested in February for suspicion of misconduct in public office tied to his relationships with Jeffrey Epstein, the late American sex offender. He walked free later that same day but remains under investigation. Mountbatten-Windsor lost his royal titles last year after connections to Epstein surfaced. The disgraced prince denies any wrongdoing. Authorities searched his former residence in Windsor and Sandringham before he launched this legal challenge.

He was released immediately following the arrest. Police did not return all seized items; they kept only materials deemed connected to their inquiry. The situation highlights how government directives directly impact the public's understanding of ongoing law enforcement actions. While the court found fault with the warrant process, the investigation into King Charles III's younger brother has not ended.