CPS Offers Early Investigative Advice in Epstein-Related Inquiries
Prosecutors from the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) are currently providing "early investigative advice" to police forces conducting investigations into the connections of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Lord Peter Mandelson with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
A spokesperson for the CPS stated:
"We can confirm that we are now providing early investigative advice to the Metropolitan Police Service regarding the force's investigation into a 72-year-old man and will continue to liaise as requested.
We can now also confirm that we are providing early investigative advice to Thames Valley Police in relation to a 66-year-old man."
Both Mountbatten-Windsor and Lord Mandelson have been arrested separately on suspicion of misconduct in public office concerning their alleged links to Epstein. They have since been released under investigation.
Mountbatten-Windsor has consistently denied any wrongdoing connected to Epstein.
Lord Mandelson has repeatedly indicated that he believes he has not acted criminally.
It is important to note that providing early investigative advice does not equate to prosecutors making formal charging decisions against the individuals involved.
The CPS offers guidance to police in serious, sensitive, or complex cases where such advice may assist in determining the evidence necessary to support potential prosecutions.
Details of the Investigations
Mountbatten-Windsor, aged 66, was released under investigation by Thames Valley Police in February following his arrest at Sandringham.
Before his arrest, police had indicated they were considering investigating him over allegations related to his association with Epstein and were reviewing claims that he shared confidential material.
Communications between Mountbatten-Windsor and Epstein were included in a set of files released by the US government.
Lord Mandelson was released on bail by the Metropolitan Police in February after his arrest in north London.
The Metropolitan Police launched an investigation into Lord Mandelson based on allegations that, during his tenure as a government minister, he passed on market-sensitive government information.
The CPS confirmed it remains prepared to support "any investigation if needed."
This is a developing news story. Additional details will be published shortly. Readers are advised to refresh the page for the most current version.
For breaking news updates, users can access the App on smartphones or tablets, or follow @BBCBreaking on X for the latest alerts.
