London Police Investigate Former UK Ambassador over Alleged Epstein Connections

British police launched a criminal investigation into Peter Mandelson, the United Kingdom’s former ambassador to the United States, following revelations from documents related to Jeffrey Epstein released by the U.S. Department of Justice, authorities announced Tuesday.

Metropolitan Police Commander Ella Marriot confirmed the investigation in London, stating that the agency received “a number of reports” concerning alleged misconduct in public office, including a referral from the UK government.

“I can confirm that the Metropolitan Police has now launched an investigation into a 72-year-old man, a former Government Minister, for misconduct in public office offenses,” Marriot said in an official statement. She added that police would “continue to assess all relevant information” but declined to provide further details during the ongoing investigation.

The investigation comes just days after Mandelson resigned from the governing Labour Party amid serious allegations that he received approximately $75,000 in payments from disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The allegations also suggest Mandelson shared sensitive government information following the 2008 financial crisis, raising questions about potential security breaches.

The fallout has been swift. Prime Minister Keir Starmer removed Mandelson from his ambassadorial position in September after emails between Mandelson and Epstein became public. On Monday, Starmer requested an urgent review of all communications between Mandelson and Epstein that occurred during Mandelson’s time in office.

The House of Lords, where Mandelson held a lifetime peerage, confirmed on Tuesday that he would step down from that position as well. “He will cease to be a member tomorrow,” a House of Lords spokesperson told reporters, declining to comment on the police investigation.

Mandelson, a significant political figure in the UK, has held numerous high-profile positions throughout his career. He served as a cabinet minister under both Tony Blair and Gordon Brown, holding positions including Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, Northern Ireland Secretary, and Business Secretary. His political influence earned him the nickname “Prince of Darkness” in British political circles for his behind-the-scenes power.

The investigation represents another branch in the far-reaching consequences of Epstein’s criminal activities and associations. Epstein died by suicide in 2019 while in federal custody awaiting trial on charges including sex trafficking of minors and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors.

The Epstein scandal has implicated numerous high-profile figures across politics, business, and entertainment, with the DOJ’s document release continuing to reveal new connections and allegations. The case has drawn international attention for exposing networks of influence and potential corruption among global elites.

British authorities have not specified the exact nature of the misconduct allegations against Mandelson, but the investigation marks a significant escalation from what began as email revelations to a formal criminal probe.

The investigation comes at a sensitive time for the Labour government, which returned to power earlier this year after more than a decade in opposition. Prime Minister Starmer, who campaigned on promises of integrity and accountability, has moved quickly to distance his administration from the scandal.

While the investigation proceeds, political analysts suggest this case could have broader implications for UK-US relations and raise questions about vetting procedures for diplomatic appointments. It also highlights ongoing concerns about the far-reaching influence Epstein may have had in political circles on both sides of the Atlantic.

British authorities have not indicated a timeline for the investigation or when formal charges might be considered.