Markle Family: Duchess Details 2018 Police Alerts Over Father's Image Allegations

The Duchess of Sussex has publicly addressed the recent reports alleging that her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., possessed child sexual abuse images. Meghan Markle stated she is deeply distressed by the claims, which have intensified family tensions following a report by The Sun.

The allegations stem from a claim by her half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., who said he found a collection of images on computers and mobile phones at their father's former residence in Cebu, Philippines. Markle Jr. told detectives he discovered hundreds, if not thousands, of such images stored in four large boxes. Markle Sr. has denied the accusations, describing them to the Daily Mail as sick lies.

In a statement released through a spokesperson, Meghan revealed that the Metropolitan Police made her aware of disturbing allegations against her father in 2018. She said a letter addressed to the Met’s Royalty and Specialist Protection unit, known as Rasp, was shared with her shortly after her wedding. Meghan explained that the letter contained troubling allegations and that she was assured an investigation was underway.

The duchess stated that her decision to limit contact with her father and to keep her children away from him was driven by a single purpose: protection. She expressed trust that authorities were taking similar steps to safeguard other families. Meghan added that she hopes justice will be fully served and that the safety of children remains the primary focus.

Sources close to the situation indicated that Meghan did not speak publicly in 2018 to avoid jeopardizing potential investigations or exposing herself to legal action. The Met is currently conducting internal inquiries to verify whether Rasp officers were involved in passing the letter to her. The force has not previously investigated Markle Sr. and is not doing so at present.

In the Philippines, officials confirmed that the matter is under active investigation. Jonvic Remulla, the interior secretary, stated that national police have secured Markle Sr.'s computer for a full digital forensic examination. He estimated that the forensic results would be available within one week. Nicholas Ty, an undersecretary at the justice department, noted that a human trafficking and child sexual exploitation taskforce in Cebu is handling the case.

Thomas Markle Sr., who is recovering from the amputation of his left leg in a rehabilitation center in Florida, said he is shocked and hurt by the news. He told the Mail that he had not possessed the computers since leaving Rosarito, Mexico, in January 2025. His half-sister, Samantha Markle, defended their father and alleged that Markle Jr. fabricated the stories for financial gain, pointing out that the devices had been out of their father's possession for two years.

The estrangement between Meghan and her father began when he missed her wedding to Prince Harry on health grounds. He has never met his grandchildren, Prince Archie, now seven, and Princess Lilibet, now five. The FBI has also weighed in, stating it will support Philippine authorities and investigate any federal violations of US law.