Meghan Markle has responded to allegations that her father possessed child pornography. The Duchess of Sussex issued a statement expressing distress over the allegations against her father, Thomas Markle Sr. Her half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., has alleged that he discovered “most sickening child abuse” material among their father’s belongings.
“I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light in the last 24 hours, and my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed,” Markle said. “In 2018, a letter was sent to the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection. That letter was subsequently shared with me. It made troubling and disturbing allegations against my father, and I was given assurances that these were being investigated.”
Meghan also explained why she remains estranged from her father. She added that the reason she maintained her distance from her father was to protect her own children from him. Buckingham Palace declined to comment when asked whether King Charles knew about the 2018 letter.
What we know about the allegations against Thomas Markle Sr.
Earlier this week, The Sun reported on the incidents surrounding the allegations. According to the report, Thomas Markle Jr. made the shocking discovery in Thomas Sr.’s home in Cebu, Philippines. Markle Jr. alleged that he found “hundreds, if not thousands” of images and videos involving children on devices belonging to his father. Markle Jr. has since reported his father to the FBI hotline, along with the National Center for Exploited and Missing Children, and the Pennsylvania state police.
“When I found this material, I was horrified, and I had no option but to report my dad,” Markle Jr. told The Sun. “I have supported, cared for him and helped him for years — but that stops now.” He added that he won’t be speaking to his father unless he’s called in to give evidence against him to the authorities.
In response, Thomas Markle Sr. has denied the allegations. “I’m shocked, I’m hurt and I’m very upset that my son is making these accusations against me,” the former TV lighting director told The Daily Mail. “I could never do what I’m being accused of. It’s the worst thing anyone could accuse me of.”
The FBI is reportedly set to investigate the allegations, led by a task force from the Women and Children’s Protection Center.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.net.
