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Monday 23/02/2026

Duke of Marlborough Faces Charges of Intentional Strangulation

The Duke of Marlborough at Blenheim Palace
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The Duke of Marlborough, Charles James Spencer-Churchill, faces charges of intentional strangulation in Woodstock, Oxfordshire.
  • The alleged incidents occurred over an 18-month period between November 2022 and May 2024, involving the same victim.
  • Spencer-Churchill, related to Sir Winston Churchill and Princess Diana, is due in Oxford magistrates court following his May 2024 arrest.
  • Blenheim Palace, the duke's ancestral home, is managed by the Blenheim Palace Heritage Foundation, which is not involved in the legal proceedings.
  • The foundation has stated it cannot comment on the charges, emphasizing the independence of its management from the duke's personal affairs.

Charles James Spencer-Churchill, the Duke of Marlborough, has been charged with three counts of intentional strangulation, according to Thames Valley Police. The charges stem from alleged incidents involving the same individual in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, over an 18-month period from November 2022 to May 2024. The 70-year-old aristocrat, a relative of both Sir Winston Churchill and Princess Diana, is scheduled to appear before the Oxford magistrates court following his arrest on May 13, 2024.

Background and Allegations

Spencer-Churchill, formerly known as Jamie Blandford, inherited the dukedom in 2014 after the passing of his father, the 11th Duke of Marlborough. Despite his noble lineage, Spencer-Churchill has faced personal challenges, including a history of drug addiction. The charges of non-fatal intentional strangulation have brought renewed scrutiny to his personal life.

Blenheim Palace and Legal Context

Blenheim Palace, the ancestral home of the Marlborough family and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is not directly implicated in the legal proceedings. The estate is managed by the Blenheim Palace Heritage Foundation, which operates independently of the duke's personal affairs. A spokesperson for the foundation stated, "The foundation is unable to comment on the charges, which relate to the duke's personal conduct and private life."

Public and Historical Interest

The case has drawn significant public interest due to the duke's prominent family connections and the historical significance of Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill. The palace has been a focal point for various events, including a reception hosted by King Charles for European leaders in July 2024.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Duke of Marlborough's case could have broader implications for the perception of the British aristocracy, particularly concerning accountability and personal conduct. Legal experts suggest that the outcome may influence public discourse on the responsibilities of individuals in positions of historical and cultural significance. Additionally, the case may prompt discussions on the separation between personal actions and the management of heritage sites like Blenheim Palace. The court's decision could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, potentially impacting the reputations of those involved.

Images from the Web

Additional article image
Image Source: Blenheim Palace