Meghan Markle Says She Learned of Allegations Against Her Father in 2018

Meghan Markle released a statement saying she first learned of "troubling and disturbing" allegations against her father, Thomas Markle Sr., after a letter was sent to the London Metropolitan Police and the Royalty and Special Protection Squad. The Duchess said the information was shared with her later that year and that she lacked concrete proof, which prevented her from making public accusations.

She added that her decision to limit her father's contact with her children was made to safeguard them. "I hope it can now be understood that any distance from my father and my choice to not allow him to have contact with our children was for one reason: to protect them," she wrote.

A source familiar with the matter said Markle’s ability to act was constrained by the need to avoid jeopardising any investigation or facing legal action. The source also noted that Markle had previously expressed frustration with media coverage of her relationship with her father.

The statement also addressed recent inquiries about a handwritten note Markle sent to her father in August 2018, in which she asked him to cease speaking to reporters. Markle’s spokesperson confirmed the letter was delivered through private contacts, but its contents have not been released.

Thomas Markle Sr., now 82, is under investigation for alleged possession of child sexual abuse material. The investigation was reportedly prompted by his son, Thomas Markle Jr., after images were found at the family home in the Philippines. Markle said she will cooperate with authorities and support the pursuit of justice for any victims.

The Duchess, who recently returned to the United Kingdom with Prince Harry and their children, has faced public scrutiny over her relationship with her father since their split before her 2018 wedding.