Meghan Markle’s father investigated for child pornography, reports say

(Gray News) - Meghan Markle’s father Thomas Markle is allegedly being investigated for possession of child sexual abuse material, according to multiple reports.

The allegations against Markle Sr. were first reported Thursday by The Sun newspaper by his son.

Thomas Markle Jr. informed police that he allegedly found “hundreds, if not thousands” of child sexual abuse images in boxes at his father’s home in the Philippines.

The Sun published a photo that it said showed Markle Jr. signing a sworn statement that he had submitted to police and quoted him as saying: “I won’t speak to my father ever again unless I’m called to give evidence against him.”

In a rare statement, Meghan said she was “deeply distressed” by her estranged father’s allegations, adding she was informed by police of “disturbing allegations” against him in 2018, NBC News reported.

“The breadth of what has now been uncovered is more sickening than one could ever imagine,” Meghan said. “My sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children.”

Meghan said that she had chosen to keep her children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, away from her father “for one reason: to protect them.”

“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,” she said.

Markle Sr., 82, denied the reported allegations, calling them “sick lies.” He added they were “the worst thing anyone could accuse me of.”

The Philippines’ Justice Department confirmed Friday that “the matter is under investigation” but otherwise declined to provide further details at this time.