Duchess of Sussex Reveals 2018 Police Warning on Father's Alleged Images

Thomas Markle Jr claims he found thousands of child abuse images on devices stored in four large boxes at his father's former home in Cebu, Philippines. The half-brother told local detectives that the digital files were located on computers and mobile phones. This disclosure prompted a response from the Duchess of Sussex, who stated she is deeply distressed by the allegations against her estranged father.

In a statement issued through a spokesperson, Meghan Markle revealed that she was aware of the situation years before the current media reports. She said the Metropolitan Police shared a 2018 letter with her that contained disturbing accusations against Thomas Markle Sr. The letter had originally been sent to the Met's Royalty and Specialist Protection unit, known as Rasp. Sources indicate the unit passed the document to Meghan shortly after her 2018 wedding. She stated that authorities assured her the matter was under investigation.

Markle Sr, 60, has denied the claims. Speaking from a rehabilitation center in Florida, he described himself as shocked and hurt. He is currently learning to walk with a prosthetic limb after his left leg was amputated due to a blood clot. The former cameraman told the Daily Mail that the accusations are sick lies. He said he could never do what he is being accused of. He noted that he has not possessed the computers in question since leaving Rosarito, Mexico, in January 2025.

Markle Sr moved to the Philippines for a fresh start and lived in Cebu until returning to the United States in May following a stroke. He stated the devices were out of his possession for two years. His daughter, Samantha Markle, supported his denial and accused Markle Jr of making up lies to make money. She alleged the claims surfaced days after their father cut off his financial support. Samantha Markle argued that the two-year gap in possession leaves significant room for tampering with the evidence.

Philippine authorities have confirmed an active investigation into the matter. Nicholas Ty, an undersecretary at the justice department, told the BBC that a human trafficking and child sexual exploitation taskforce in Cebu is handling the case. Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated that national police have secured Markle Sr's computer for a full digital forensic examination. He expected to receive the forensic results within one week. The FBI also confirmed it will support Philippine authorities and investigate any related federal violations of US law.

The Metropolitan Police in London are making internal inquiries to confirm whether Rasp officers were involved in passing the 2018 letter to Meghan. The force has not previously investigated Markle Sr and is not doing so now. Meghan said she could not speak publicly in 2018 because doing so might have jeopardized future investigations or exposed her to legal action. She explained that any distance from her father and her decision to limit his contact with her children were intended to protect them. She expressed hope that justice will be fully served and that children's safety remains the priority.

Meghan and Prince Harry are the parents of Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five. Markle Sr has never met his grandchildren. The family has been estranged since he missed their daughter's wedding to the prince on health grounds.