Buckingham Palace was reportedly "blindsided" by allegations involving Meghan Markle's estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., according to royal commentator Kinsey Schofield. The allegations, which include findings of child sexual abuse material, are now under investigation by Philippine authorities and have prompted a review by London's Metropolitan Police.
Thomas Markle Jr. told The Sun that he discovered "hundreds, if not thousands" of images depicting child sexual abuse while clearing out boxes at his father's former home in Cebu, Philippines. He stated that he reported the findings to local police and contacted the FBI. The 82-year-old Thomas Markle Sr. has denied the allegations, telling the Daily Mail, "I'm shocked, I'm hurt, and I'm very upset that my son is making these accusations against me. I could never do what I'm being accused of."
Meghan Markle released a statement expressing her distress and stating her hope that justice would be served. "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. "In 2018, a letter was sent to the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection. That letter was subsequently shared with me. It made troubling and disturbing allegations against my father, and I was given assurances that these were being investigated."
Meghan also stated that her distance from her father and her decision to not allow him contact with her children was to protect them. "Although the breadth of what has now been uncovered is more sickening than one could ever imagine, my sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children."
Metropolitan Police stated that records show the letter was received in January 2019, not 2018. A spokesperson for Meghan acknowledged the discrepancy, deferring to the police's timestamped records. The letter, reportedly from Markle Sr.'s first wife, Roslyn Markle, contained allegations of sexual abuse against him, which he denies.
The Philippines' National Bureau of Investigation confirmed the FBI had requested assistance in investigating Markle Jr.'s claims. The Philippine National Police are also conducting an investigation.
Royal experts suggest the British royal family will maintain a distance from the controversy. "My understanding is that Buckingham Palace was blindsided," Schofield said. "They find themselves dragged into another controversy involving [the Sussexes]. And the allegations are deeply disturbing."
King Charles III is in a difficult position, with experts suggesting he would offer Prince Harry emotional support privately but is unlikely to comment publicly due to the ongoing investigation. Prince William is expected to remain uninvolved.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed the January 2019 letter contained claims about alleged offending outside the UK and was passed to the office of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex for their awareness. The force is reviewing its handling of the matter in 2019. "The details of the allegations in the letter were not shared with other law enforcement agencies," the police stated, adding they were considering whether to refer their approach to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
A source close to Meghan told People magazine that she is processing the news and feels a sense of relief that the allegations have come to light. "It's been really difficult," the source said. "She has young children, and I think that, alongside the victims, it's just weighing on her mind."