By Molly Claire Goddard
9:55am PST, Feb 19, 2026
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According to a source, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie have not cut off contact with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor as the fallout of his connection to
Jeffrey Epstein worsens. "The sisters are not abandoning their father. They aren't turning their backs on him. But everything is obviously very strained and hard," an insider told
HELLO!.
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Royal author
Robert Jobson believes Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor pulled the wool over Princess Beatrice's and Princess Eugenie's eyes when it came to Jeffrey Epstein. "They are pretty torn because they believed [their father]," he told
People. "Just like the late
Queen [Elizabeth II] and
[King] Charles III, Andrew told them all the same story — that he had done nothing wrong. My understanding is they feel pretty duped by the whole thing."
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Unfortunately for Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, Sarah Ferguson's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein was also highlighted in emails released by the U.S. Department of Justice. "You are a legend. I really don't have the words to describe my love, gratitude for your generosity and kindness," the former Duchess of York wrote to the late financier on January 30, 2010, via
People. "I am at your service. Just marry me."
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The downfall of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor continues, as the former Duke of York was arrested at Sandringham on suspicion of misconduct in a public office for allegedly giving information to Jeffrey Epstein. "As part of the investigation, we have today arrested a man in his sixties from Norfolk on suspicion of misconduct in public office and are carrying out searches at addresses in Berkshire and Norfolk," authorities said in a statement via
The Sun. "The man remains in police custody at this time."
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Assistant Chief Constable Oliver Wright said of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest, "Following a thorough assessment, we have now opened an investigation into this allegation of misconduct in public office. It is important that we protect the integrity and objectivity of our investigation as we work with our partners to investigate this alleged offense. We understand the significant public interest in this case, and we will provide updates at the appropriate time."
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King Charles III also issued a statement on the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. "I have learned with the deepest concern the news about Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and suspicion of misconduct in public office," he said via
People. "What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation. Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all."
