London police have arrested former British ambassador, Peter Mandelson, on suspicion of misconduct in public office following fresh scrutiny of his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. According to the Metropolitan Police, authorities have detained the 72-year-old at his central London residence on Monday.
Officials confirmed that officers transported Mandelson to a London police station for questioning. Although the arrest signals that investigators suspect a possible offence, police stressed that it does not imply guilt. Meanwhile, Mandelson’s legal team has not issued an immediate response.
Emails intensify scrutiny
The investigation gained momentum after the U.S. Department of Justice released emails in late January that suggested a closer relationship between Mandelson and Epstein than previously disclosed. The correspondence highlighted that Mandelson shared information with Epstein while serving in the government of former prime minister Gordon Brown in 2009.
Earlier this month, police searched Mandelson’s properties in London and Wiltshire as part of the probe. He previously said he “very deeply” regretted his association with Epstein but has not publicly addressed the latest developments. Notably, Mandelson resigned from the Labour Party led by Keir Starmer and stepped down from the House of Lords amid mounting pressure.
Political fallout widens
The case has intensified political scrutiny of Starmer’s government, particularly regarding the vetting process before Mandelson’s 2024 diplomatic appointment. Lawmakers have ordered the release of related documents, which officials expect to publish in early March.
Mandelson worked hard to build a decades-long political career and helped shape the New Labour project under former prime minister Tony Blair. On the other hand, he previously resigned twice from cabinet posts over separate controversies. If convicted of misconduct in public office, he could face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment in a Crown Court.
