Thomas Markle Sr., father of Meghan Markle, has reportedly been moved into a dementia care home in Lakeland, Florida. The move comes amid an ongoing investigation into allegations of child pornography possession.
The 82-year-old was photographed in a wheelchair being assisted by care facility aides on Friday, according to reports. The US Sun reports that he has been diagnosed with dementia and is now in a facility that specializes in dementia care.
This development could potentially impact the FBI's investigation into the child pornography allegations. News of the probe emerged five months ago when Thomas Markle Jr., Meghan's half-brother, reported his father to authorities, claiming to have found numerous child abuse images at their father's former home in Cebu, Philippines.
Thomas Markle Sr. has denied the allegations, calling them "sick lies." His daughter, Samantha Markle, has also defended their father, accusing their brother of seeking revenge. However, further allegations surfaced regarding "vile" materials found in a storage unit allegedly abandoned by Thomas Markle in Mexico. Authorities in the Philippines have reportedly obtained a warrant to search Thomas Markle's digital devices as part of their investigation.
Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has previously stated she is "deeply distressed" by the news concerning her father. Her husband, Prince Harry, and other members of the British royal family are reportedly not expected to become involved in the matter.
Thomas Markle had been living in the Philippines until earlier this year when he returned to the United States to pursue medical care following a stroke that led to the amputation of his left leg. His daughter Samantha had stated in May that he moved for "ongoing medical care" in the U.S.