US Air Force Member Investigated Over Abuse Images After Leaving UK
A senior US Air Force officer working at the U.S. Embassy in London is under investigation for alleged involvement with child abuse material, having departed the UK before British authorities could question him.
A high-ranking member of the U.S. Air Force, identified as Lieutenant Colonel Michael Morris, is under investigation for possessing and distributing child sex abuse material. Morris, who served as an assistant military attaché at the U.S. Embassy in London, was reportedly flown out of the United Kingdom in August on a civilian flight.
Morris was questioned by American authorities after allegations surfaced that his brother, Benjamin Morris, had shared child abuse material with him. Benjamin Morris, 33, faces trial in Illinois for the possession and dissemination of child sexual abuse material, charges he denies. The Rock Island County State Attorney's office indicated the allegations against Benjamin Morris pertain to the period between March and April 2026.
While Lt Col Michael Morris was not a diplomat, it is understood he operated under diplomatic protection. The U.S. Embassy in London confirmed in September that an investigation was underway and that the staff member had been reassigned to the U.S. while inquiries continued. The embassy stated it "expects all personnel to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, and we take these allegations seriously," adding that UK law enforcement was informed promptly and swift action was taken.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force has confirmed that charges have been preferred against Lt Col Michael Morris, who is currently assigned to the Air District of Washington. These charges and the accompanying evidence will be reviewed to determine if the case warrants a court-martial, a formal military criminal trial. The Air Force emphasized that charges are allegations and the member is presumed innocent until proven guilty. A military hearing is scheduled for November at Joint Base Andrews near Washington D.C., where Lt Col Morris will enter a plea only if the matter is referred to a court-martial.
The Metropolitan Police stated they have been in regular communication with U.S. authorities since being notified on August 25th about their investigation into suspected offenses related to indecent images of children. The police are aware that charges have been brought in the U.S. and that legal proceedings are ongoing, and they remain in contact with U.S. authorities.
A UK government spokesperson commented that they expect all foreign diplomats in the UK to abide by British laws, mirroring the expectation for UK diplomats serving overseas. Due to the ongoing U.S. investigation, further comment was deemed inappropriate at this stage. The UK government remains in close contact with the U.S. Embassy, including at a ministerial level.