Thorbjørn Jagland has been charged with “aggravated corruption,” according to his representatives at Elden Law Firm. They confirmed the charge and said he denies all allegations. Norway’s economic crimes agency, Økokrim, will now question the former prime minister as part of its ongoing investigation into his alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein.
Police searches and next steps
Økokrim’s director, Pål Lønseth, said investigators searched Jagland’s residence in Oslo and two other properties on Thursday. He declined to comment on possible seizures. Jagland’s lawyer, Anders Brosveet, called the searches standard for a case of this type. He added that, as an automatic consequence, Jagland now has formal suspect status and will appear for questioning. The agency said the investigation will proceed without further comment for now.
What “aggravated corruption” means
Under Norwegian law, aggravated corruption refers to serious corruption offenses, typically involving significant benefits, public trust, or repeated conduct. Prosecutors apply the “aggravated” label when the scale, position, or impact raises the severity. Økokrim investigates complex economic and environmental crimes, including major bribery cases and misuse of public office.
The Epstein link and the trigger for the probe
Last week, Økokrim disclosed that Jagland was under investigation on suspicion of aggravated corruption. The agency cited information from newly released Epstein-related documents obtained from the U.S. Department of Justice. Investigators said they are assessing whether gifts, travel, or loans were received in connection with Jagland’s public roles. He served as Norway’s prime minister from 1996 to 1997, later as foreign minister, and as secretary-general of the Council of Europe. Jagland has denied any wrongdoing tied to Epstein.
Royal fallout adds pressure
The case unfolds as Norway’s royal family faces separate scrutiny. Newly released files revealed extensive past correspondence between Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Epstein. The royal house said she “strongly disavows” Epstein’s crimes and regrets not recognizing his conduct sooner. The debate now touches her future role, especially given the age and health of King Harald V. His son, Crown Prince Haakon, has occasionally served as regent during the king’s medical absences. These parallel controversies intensify public scrutiny of elite networks and due diligence around influential figures.
Legal posture and public interest
Jagland’s legal team stresses cooperation and denies the allegations. Økokrim will evaluate financial flows, travel arrangements, and any benefits tied to official functions. If warranted, prosecutors could pursue formal charges in court after questioning and evidence review. For now, the case remains in the investigative phase. The outcome will test Norway’s anti-corruption framework and its ability to police potential conflicts around senior officeholders.
In the coming days, Økokrim will interview Jagland and continue forensic work from the searches. Media attention will remain high given Jagland’s past roles and the broader reckoning over ties to Epstein. Authorities urge patience as the investigation runs its course.
