Andrew search warrants were unlawful, court hears
The High Court has ruled that search warrants used by Thames Valley Police against Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor were unlawful. While the warrants were quashed, the criminal investigation into his alleged misconduct remains active, with a future hearing scheduled for 2027 regarding the retention of evidence.
Why it matters
This case highlights the legal standards for police investigative powers and the ongoing scrutiny of high-profile public figures regarding past conduct.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Lucy Manning , special correspondent , Aleks Phillips and Dominic Casciani , home and legal correspondent Watch: Why the search warrant was deemed 'unlawful' and what happens next? Thames Valley Police has accepted warrants it used to search Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's homes at the time of his arrest in February were unlawful, the High Court has been told.
Following Thursday's hearing, items seized in the raid continue to be held by the police, with a further hearing to take place in 2027 to decide whether the material can be used as evidence.
Meanwhile, the criminal investigation into Mountbatten-Windsor is ongoing.
The former prince, who denies any wrongdoing, was arrested by police on 19 February on suspicion of misconduct in public office, after which he launched a legal challenge over the legality of the search warrants.
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