Former UK Ambassador Peter Mandelson Arrested on Suspicion of Misconduct in Public Office in Epstein Probe
Feb. 23, 2026 — North London Metropolitan Police arrested Peter Mandelson, a 72-year-old former UK ambassador to the United States, at his home on suspicion of misconduct in public office, linked to recently released Jeffrey Epstein documents alleging he leaked sensitive government information to the late sex offender. Mandelson was released on bail early Tuesday pending further investigation.
Police took Mandelson to a London station for questioning after executing search warrants at two addresses in the Wiltshire and Camden areas, according to a Metropolitan Police statement.
“A 72-year-old man arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office has been released on bail pending further investigation,” the force said, adding that searches followed at the properties.
The probe centers on 2009 emails suggesting Mandelson, then business secretary, shared details on potential tax measures on bankers’ bonuses and an eurozone bailout package with Epstein. Authorities clarified the arrest does not relate to sex offenses.
Epstein Payments to Mandelson’s Husband
Epstein files reveal the financier sent thousands of pounds to Mandelson’s husband, Reinaldo Avila da Silva, shortly after his 2009 prison release for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Transfers included £3,225 for an osteopathy course, £10,000 total, $13,000, and $2,000 monthly, per emails detailed by The Guardian and BBC.
Da Silva emailed Epstein: “Just a brief note to thank you for the money which arrived in my account this morning.”
Mandelson reportedly advised framing payments as loans to avoid taxes.
Mandelson’s Response and Career
Mandelson apologized for maintaining ties with Epstein post-conviction:
“I was wrong to believe Epstein following his conviction and to continue my association with him afterwards. I apologise unequivocally for doing so to the women and girls who suffered.”
A longtime Labour figure, Mandelson helped Tony Blair’s 1997 victory, served under Gordon Brown, and was US ambassador from February to September 2025 before resignation amid Epstein scrutiny. He quit the House of Lords earlier in February.
Mandelson and da Silva, a Brazilian translator, have been together 27 years and married in 2023.
Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s family welcomed the action:
“As Virginia Roberts Giuffre’s family, we commend the British authorities for taking meaningful action.”
