7th November, 2026 | News

Meghan Markle’s Father, Thomas Markle, Arrested in Florida Over Alleged Child Sexual Abuse Material

Thomas Markle, the estranged father of Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has been arrested in Florida over allegations of possessing child sexual abuse material, according to the United States Department of Justice.

The 82-year-old reportedly faces one federal charge of possession of child sexual abuse material following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

FBI Seizes 78 Items From Storage Units

According to court documents, FBI agents recovered approximately 78 items from two storage units rented by Thomas Markle. The seized materials reportedly contained suspected child sexual abuse material.

The investigation led to his arrest in Florida on Friday, with authorities indicating that the case would be prosecuted under applicable federal laws.

First Assistant US Attorney Bill Essayli described the allegations as extremely serious and stated that prosecutors intended to pursue the case.

FBI Director Kash Patel also confirmed that agents worked with other Justice Department agencies to locate the suspect and recover the alleged material.

Arrest Follows Earlier Investigation in the Philippines

Thomas Markle’s arrest comes weeks after authorities in the Philippines reportedly investigated allegations that he possessed child sexual abuse material while residing in the country.

Philippine authorities subsequently disclosed that thousands of photographs involving minors had reportedly been recovered during their investigation.

Markle had previously denied the allegations, describing them as “sick lies.”

Meghan Markle Reacts to Allegations Against Father

The arrest has also drawn attention to the strained relationship between Thomas Markle and his daughter, Meghan Markle.

Meghan, who is married to Prince Harry, previously expressed deep distress over the allegations against her father.

Their relationship has been distant for several years, particularly following the controversy surrounding his absence from their 2018 wedding.

A spokesperson for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex declined to comment on Thomas Markle’s arrest.

Thomas Markle Faces Federal Legal Proceedings

According to the US Department of Justice, Thomas Markle faces one federal count of possession of child sexual abuse material.

The case is expected to proceed through the US federal court system, where the allegations will be examined through the judicial process.

The charges remain allegations, and Thomas Markle is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.