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US blocks UK access to unredacted Epstein files: Why the DoJ is forcing a 'bureaucratic' delay in Prince Andrew probe

The Metropolitan Police has now sent a formal request to US authorities for access to the original files after earlier informal efforts failed.

2 min read Apr 25, 2026 12:19 PM IST First published on: Apr 25, 2026 at 12:00 PM IST

This undated photo released by the U.S. Department of Justice, shows Jeffrey Epstein, center, sitting with Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and Peter Mandelson. (U.S. Department of Justice via AP)

The US Department of Justice will not provide unredacted files linked to Jeffrey Epstein to British police unless a formal legal request is made, according to a report by The Guardian.

Investigators in the UK say access to the original material is important as they examine allegations involving Prince Andrew and Peter Mandelson.

Why documents matter for investigation

Police sources told The Guardian that prosecutors may be “reluctant” to bring charges without…