Meghan 'deeply distressed' by father abuse image allegations

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 13:02 · Archive

Meghan Markle says she is 'deeply distressed' by allegations that her father Thomas Markle Sr possessed child abuse images, which he denies.

Meghan Markle has responded to allegations that her father Thomas Markle Sr possessed child abuse images. Her half-brother Thomas Markle Jr made the claims, alleging a stash of images was discovered at their father's former home in the Philippines. Mr Markle Sr has denied the allegations, calling them 'sick lies'.

Meghan said she was 'deeply distressed at the news that has come to light' and that her thoughts were 'with any children who may have been harmed'. She revealed that in 2018 a letter was sent to the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection containing 'troubling and disturbing allegations' against her father, and that she was given assurances these were being investigated.

Meghan stated that her distance from her father and choice to prevent him from having contact with her children was 'for one reason: to protect them'. She expressed hope that 'justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children'.

Meghan became estranged from her father ahead of her 2018 royal wedding after he staged paparazzi photographs. He did not attend the ceremony, and she was accompanied down the aisle by the King instead. Meghan is his only child with Doria Ragland, though he has two other children, Samantha Markle and Thomas Jr., from a previous marriage.

How it is being reported

• Meghan 'deeply distressed' by allegations father possessed child abuse imagesMeghan Markle says she is “deeply distressed” by allegations that father Thomas Markle Sr possessed child abuse images. He denies the claims.Oxfordshire Guardian · 23 Oct, 12:37
• Meghan 'deeply distressed' by allegations father possessed child abuse imagesMeghan Markle says she is “deeply distressed” by allegations that father Thomas Markle Sr possessed child abuse images. He denies the claims.Oxford Mail · 23 Oct, 12:37

In this story: Meghan Markle · Thomas Markle Sr · Thomas Markle Jr · Doria Ragland · Samantha Markle · Metropolitan Police · Philippines · King

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