Former Duke of York fights to block evidence from unlawful police raids

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, the former Duke of York, remains engaged in a High Court dispute over whether material obtained during February raids of his Sandringham Estate residence and former Windsor home, Royal Lodge, can be used in the ongoing investigation into alleged misconduct in public office. Thames Valley Police acknowledged that the warrants, issued by an Old Bailey judge, were unlawful due to a significant error in their application, but have filed a request to retain the evidence.

Mr Justice Hilliard noted the agreement that the warrants were invalid, yet indicated the investigation could continue if the evidence is lawfully seized under another provision. Andrew did not attend the hearing; his barrister made no submissions. Police now propose to limit access to the documents, subject to redactions of officer names.

Legal experts say unlawfully obtained evidence may still be admissible if it does not compromise trial fairness. A private hearing is scheduled for 2027, meaning the former prince may not know if charges will be brought for months.