Federal agents seize Meghan Markle's father in Florida on child abuse material charges

Thomas Markle Sr., the estranged father of Meghan Markle, was arrested by federal agents Friday morning outside Tampa, Florida. Two people familiar with the matter told The Associated Press that the arrest stems from federal charges related to child sexual abuse material.

The move follows reports that Markle's half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., discovered a large collection of images while clearing out their father's former home in Cebu City, Philippines. Markle Jr. stated that he found hundreds, if not thousands, of such images in boxes at the property.

Markle Jr. reported the discovery to local police and contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He told The Sun that he has supported his father for years, but that support has now ended. He said he will not speak to his father again unless called to give evidence in a legal proceeding.

Meghan Markle, an American citizen and former star of the television drama Suits, reacted to the news by describing herself as deeply distressed by the allegations. She noted that a letter containing troubling allegations about her father was sent to London police in 2018. She said she was given assurances at that time that the matter was under investigation.

Markle said the distance between her and her father, and her choice to limit his contact with their children, was made to protect them. She expressed hope that this context helps explain their relationship despite media distortions over the years.

Markle Sr., a retired television lighting and photography director, did not attend his daughter's 2018 wedding to Prince Harry at Windsor Castle. He had been living in the Philippines earlier this year but returned to the United States after suffering a stroke and having his left leg amputated.

The couple has two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. Markle Sr. remains in custody in Florida as federal authorities proceed with the case.