The UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) was given fresh allegations linked toJeffrey Epsteinin early 2024, but chose not to open a formal investigation.
Officials assessed the information as largely 'unverified' or 'hearsay' and said it did not meet the evidential threshold required to open a full inquiry under UK law. The referral reportedly included material relating to financial links and social associations involving UK-connected individuals.
The decision has since come under renewed scrutiny following a High Court decision in April 2026 granting a judicial review into the NCA's handling of the referral. Claimants argue the original assessment was 'procedurally flawed', while the agency has said it is now 're-assessing' the material in light of additional disclosures made by US authorities.
According to reporting by theFinancial Times (FT), a meeting in spring 2024 brought NCA officials into contact with a US-based activist who said they had new information concerning Epstein and UK-linked figures. Follow-up discussions took place, but the agency concluded the material did not justify opening a criminal investigation.
This is the proof Starmer knew about Epstein. Starmer needs to go. It's over.https://t.co/NErAt3rwWVpic.twitter.com/E06spxun6R
🚨 NEW: Keir Starmer messaged Peter Mandelson the night before he announced him as US Ambassador“You’ll be brilliant in challenging circumstances. And after many years of our discussions, we get to work together side by side. I really look forward to that”[@ShippersUnbound]
Quite the spot from@SamCoatesSkySir Keir Starmer ignored advice from the head of the civil service to ensure that Lord Mandelson’s national security vetting was carried out before appointing him as ambassador to the USLord Case, who was the cabinet secretary at the time,…pic.twitter.com/5Stwf1A44B
Understandard UK practice, the NCA distinguishes between 'intelligence' and 'evidence'. Third-party dossiers are typically treated as intelligence unless supported by corroborated material or direct testimony. Officials said the 2024 referral did not meet the threshold for allocating investigative resources.
The NCA has not publicly detailed the contents of the material and has said it does not comment on specific intelligence assessments.
In April 2026, the High Court granted a judicial review into the NCA's decision-making process. The proceedings will examine whether the agency applied its evidential thresholds appropriately and whether relevant material was given sufficient weight at the time.
Source: International Business Times UK
