A US embassy staffer, accused of possessing indecent images of children, was flown out of the UK in August without being questioned by British police. The individual was detained at his south London flat before being returned to the United States on a commercial flight.
The US Embassy confirmed to the BBC that authorities are investigating the allegations and have reassigned the staff member to the US. Embassy officials stated, "The United States government expects all personnel to adhere to the highest standards of conduct, and we take these allegations seriously." They added that UK law enforcement was quickly informed and swift action was taken.
It is understood the individual worked at the US embassy in Vauxhall, south west London, and had diplomatic protection despite not being a diplomat. Investigations are ongoing in conjunction with UK authorities, and Home Office ministers and the Metropolitan Police are in close contact with the US embassy on the matter.
A UK government spokesperson said, "We expect all foreign diplomats in the UK to abide by our laws, in the same way we expect all UK diplomats to do so when posted overseas."