US embassy worker investigated over abuse images named as senior Air Force officer

Centre · 2A US embassy staffer in London accused of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, who left the UK before British police questioned him, is Lt Col Michael Morris of the US Air Force, according to the BBC. 1 2 Centre · 1Morris was flown out of the UK in August without being questioned by British police; the BBC says he left on a civilian flight and, though not a diplomat, is understood to have had the umbrella of diplomatic protection. 1 Centre · 1The case stems from an investigation into his brother, Benjamin Morris, 33, who faces trial in Illinois on charges of possessing and disseminating child sexual abuse material, which he denies; the Rock Island County State Attorney, Dora Villareal, said the allegations against him relate to March and April 2026. 1

Centre · 1The Evening Standard reports that Benjamin Morris was arrested after an investigation sparked by a group that tracks down alleged paedophiles, and that prosecutors claim he shared images with his brother while Michael Morris was stationed in London. 2 Centre · 2A US Air Force spokesperson said charges have been preferred against Lt Col Morris, now assigned to the Air Force District of Washington, and will be reviewed to decide whether he faces court-martial; it stressed he is presumed innocent. 1 2 Centre · 2A military hearing is due in November at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, and the BBC says Morris will only enter a plea if the case is referred to court-martial. 1 2

Centre · 1The Evening Standard lists the formal charges as possession and distribution of "child pornography", obstructing justice and "conduct unbecoming an officer and a gentleman". 2 Centre · 2The Metropolitan Police said the US authorities made them aware of the investigation on Tuesday 25 August, that they have liaised regularly since, and that they know charges have been brought in the US. 1 2 Centre · 1In September the US embassy told the BBC it expects all personnel to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, "quickly informed UK law enforcement and took swift action", and reassigned the staff member to the US. 1

Centre · 1A UK government spokesperson said it expects all foreign diplomats to abide by UK law but that it would be inappropriate to comment further while the US investigation continues; the BBC understands ministers remain in close contact with the embassy. 1 Centre · 1The Evening Standard says the case has renewed concern at Westminster about US authorities ignoring the host country's jurisdiction, and compares it with the Anne Sacoolas case (Harry Dunn's death in 2019) and with US airman Captain Jacob Wulfson, who was court-martialled on a US airbase and jailed for six months for strangulation in Cambridge. 2