US embassy worker in London investigated over abuse images is senior Air Force member
US charges and allegations
The US Air Force said charges have been preferred against Lt Col Michael Morris, who is assigned to the Air Force District of Washington. The allegations concern possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
His work in London
Morris worked as an assistant military attaché at the US Embassy in London, the BBC was told. He left the UK before British police had questioned him. Although he was not a diplomat, he was understood to have had the benefit of diplomatic protection. The article does not explain how that protection applied in his case.
Embassy response and timeline
Rock Island County State Attorney Dora Villareal told the BBC that allegations against Benjamin Morris relate to March and April 2026. The information provided does not state when the alleged conduct involving Lt Col Michael Morris took place.
The US Embassy said it had informed UK law enforcement and acted swiftly, adding that it takes the allegations seriously. It said US legal proceedings are ongoing and that it remains in contact with American authorities, but would not comment further while the investigation continues.
Key points
- The US Air Force says charges have been preferred against Morris, who is presumed innocent.
- Morris left the UK before British police questioned him and was later questioned by US authorities.
- Allegations against his brother, Benjamin Morris, concern March and April 2026.