US federal authorities have arrested Thomas Markle, the 82-year-old father of Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, over allegations involving possession of child sexual abuse material. FBI agents took him into custody in Florida on Friday, November 6, 2026.
Prosecutors charged Markle with one count of possessing illegal material involving minors. According to court documents, investigators recovered dozens of items from two storage units in the Los Angeles area that he had rented since 2008.
FBI Investigation Uncovers Suspected Material
The FBI investigation began in October after a witness reported finding suspected child sexual abuse material among Markle’s belongings in the Philippines. Investigators subsequently identified two storage units linked to him in California and obtained search warrants.
During searches, federal agents seized approximately 78 items, including photographic slides, film negatives and books. An affidavit stated that some images allegedly depicted a man identified as Markle with an underage girl.
Authorities said the investigation involved examining the recovered materials and gathering witness statements. If convicted, Markle could face a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.
Meghan Expresses Distress Over Allegations
Markle appeared before a federal magistrate judge in Tampa, Florida, following his arrest. The court released him pending trial under home detention and electronic monitoring, while he entered no plea during his initial appearance.
Meanwhile, Meghan previously described the allegations against her father as deeply distressing. She has maintained distance from him since her 2018 marriage to Prince Harry and has reportedly prioritised protecting her children.
Thomas Markle previously denied the accusations, describing them as false and calling them “sick lies.” His defence lawyer was not immediately identified, and the legal proceedings remain ongoing.
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