Police Reopen Investigation into McSweeney’s Stolen Phone After Address Error
The Metropolitan Police will reassess a theft report after admitting they logged the wrong address. A man in his forties had told officers his mobile phone was snatched in central London last October.
Administrative error and case review
The original report was made on Monday 20 October. Police recorded the location as Belgrave Street, E1 in Tower Hamlets.
They now say the incident should have been logged as Belgrave Road, Pimlico in Westminster. The force will amend the report and re-evaluate available evidence.
CCTV and initial closure
An earlier review looked for CCTV and other lines of inquiry. That review concluded there were no realistic leads and the file was closed.
During a recent media response, officers discovered the address mistake. This prompted the decision to reopen and recheck possible footage.
Potential impact on political correspondence
The stolen device belonged to Morgan McSweeney. He is Sir Keir Starmer’s former chief of staff.
Messages on the phone may have included communications with Lord Peter Mandelson. Some of those messages are due to be published amid inquiries into Mandelson’s ambassadorial appointment.
Officials say the Cabinet Office does hold some exchanges between McSweeney and Lord Mandelson. But the loss of the device means other messages could be unavailable.
Context and legal developments
Lord Mandelson was arrested on 23 February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. The allegation involves sharing sensitive information with Jeffrey Epstein during his time as business secretary.
McSweeney resigned earlier this year. Reports say he pushed for Mandelson’s appointment as UK ambassador to the United States.
Political reaction
Conservative figures have criticised the circumstances around the phone theft. They argue the missing device undermines transparency over the disclosures.
Tory frontbencher Alex Burghart said the absence of that phone raises serious questions. He described the situation as appearing to conceal relevant material.
Government response
A government spokesperson said ministers will comply with a humble address and will support the Metropolitan Police. They stressed cooperation with the ongoing law enforcement work.
Sir Keir has apologised for his role in Mandelson’s appointment. He also apologised to victims affected by Epstein’s crimes.
Filmogaz.com will follow developments as the Met examines whether CCTV or other evidence can now be pursued. The decision to Police reopen investigation into McSweeney’s stolen phone after address error will determine whether additional material can be recovered.
