Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is demanding taxpayer-funded security after an alarming encounter with a masked man near his Sandringham estate left him shaken, according to reports. The former Duke of York was walking his dog on Wednesday evening when a man wearing a balaclava allegedly brandished a crowbar from his vehicle and approached him. The incident occurred near Marsh Farm, Andrew's new Norfolk home, prompting immediate police action.
Arrest and Court Appearance
Alex Jenkinson, 39, from Suffolk, was arrested at 7:30 PM on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and committing a public order offense. He appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court via video link and pleaded not guilty to using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behavior intended to harass or cause alarm. Jenkinson was released on conditional bail, which bans him from entering Norfolk, being near any royally owned property in the UK, and contacting Andrew.
Security Concerns
Despite the arrest, Andrew is increasingly worried about his personal safety. A source told the Telegraph that the former prince faces heightened risks due to media coverage of his association with Jeffrey Epstein and his conduct as UK trade envoy. The source emphasized that Andrew's high profile warrants a security review, especially after he lost his titles and moved from Royal Lodge. Unlike Windsor, the Sandringham estate is open to the public, and Andrew no longer enjoys automatic royal protection.
Mitigation Measures
To address safety concerns, CCTV cameras and a 6-foot fence have been installed at Marsh Farm. Additionally, the property has been included in the no-fly zone over Sandringham to enhance security. Meanwhile, the Home Office is reviewing security arrangements for Prince Harry, despite his legal defeat on automatic public-funded protection. Harry has argued that his risks have escalated since moving to the US and refuses to bring his family to the UK without guaranteed police protection. The review's findings will be submitted to the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC). Metro has contacted Andrew's representatives for comment.
