Top Barrister Adrian Darbishire KC Visits Peter Mandelson After Police Raids
Peter Mandelson was visited at his London residence today by prominent barrister Adrian Darbishire KC, following police raids at two properties connected to the peer. The visit occurred as investigations continue into allegations involving convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Lawyer's Extended Presence During Police Operations
Adrian Darbishire was observed entering Mandelson's townhouse near Regent's Park at noon and departing at 1:30 PM. When approached by reporters outside the property, Darbishire confirmed his identity but repeatedly stated "no comment" to further inquiries.
It has been reported that Darbishire spent over nine hours at Mandelson's London home on Friday while police conducted simultaneous searches at that location and another property linked to Mandelson in Wiltshire. Specialist crime teams executed these raids as part of an ongoing investigation.
Darbishire's High-Profile Legal Background
Adrian Darbishire brings substantial legal experience to the situation, having previously represented former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in a 2019 High Court challenge against a private prosecution. That case involved allegations of misconduct in public office related to claims about UK payments to the EU during the Brexit referendum campaign.
Called to the bar in 1993 and appointed King's Counsel in 2012, Darbishire specializes in defending professionals facing serious criminal charges related to their work. His law firm describes him as "an imaginative and collaborative lawyer with great intellect and forensic insight" who is recognized as "a superb tactician and a powerfully persuasive advocate."
Police Investigation into Epstein Connections
The police raids on Friday targeted two properties associated with Mandelson as authorities investigate claims that he leaked government information to Jeffrey Epstein following the 2008 economic crisis. Mandelson served in Gordon Brown's government during this period.
After searches were completed, plain-clothed officers were seen leaving Mandelson's London residence carrying two boxes. The investigation follows the release of additional Epstein files and renewed scrutiny of connections between the financier and various public figures.
Mandelson's Previous Denials and Ongoing Scrutiny
Peter Mandelson has previously denied any criminal wrongdoing regarding his association with Jeffrey Epstein, who died in a New York prison in 2019. The latest developments come amid heightened examination of relationships between Epstein and political figures on both sides of the Atlantic.
Legal commentators have noted Darbishire's expertise in handling complex cases involving professional conduct and financial crime, suggesting his involvement indicates the serious nature of the allegations under investigation.
