US Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Flees London as Child Abuse Probe Expands

Lt Col Michael Morris, a senior US Air Force officer serving as assistant military attaché at the US Embassy in south‑west London, was flown out of the United Kingdom in August before British police could question him over alleged child sexual abuse material. He is alleged to have received illegal images from his brother, Benjamin Morris, 33, who is based in the United States and faces trial in Illinois for possession and dissemination of such material. The US authorities say the alleged sharing took place between March and April 2026. British investigators learned of the case on 25 August and noted that Michael Morris left the country on a civilian flight without being detained. Although he is not a diplomat, he was covered by diplomatic protection while posted at the embassy. In September the US Embassy confirmed an internal investigation and reassigned Morris to the United States. The US Air Force said charges have been preferred and that the evidence will be reviewed to decide if a court‑martial is appropriate. He is currently assigned to the Air Force District of Washington. A military hearing is set for November at Joint Base Andrews near Washington, D.C.; Morris will enter a plea only if the case is referred to a court‑martial. The Metropolitan Police said they are in regular contact with US authorities and are aware that charges have been filed in the United States. A UK government spokesperson stressed that foreign diplomats must obey British law and declined further comment while the US investigation continues.

Context

Diplomatic protection can shield embassy staff from local arrest, but it does not stop host‑country police from seeking cooperation in investigations. This case shows how such protections interact with criminal probes that cross national borders.