By Sohaib Shams
Thomas Markle, the 82-year-old father of the Duchess of Sussex, has been arrested in the United States on suspicion of possessing child sexual abuse material, according to reports from the Associated Press.
Arrest Follows Son's Report
The arrest took place near Tampa, Florida, where Markle had returned to recuperate from recent medical treatment. He was photographed in a wheelchair being led away by FBI agents.
Evidence Found in Philippines and Mexico
The investigation was triggered last month when Markle's son, Thomas Markle Jr., reported his father to police in the Philippines and to the FBI. He allegedly handed over a collection of child abuse images found among his father's belongings in Cebu City.
Second Cache Discovered in Storage Unit
A second cache of material was reportedly discovered last week during a raid by Mexican police on a storage unit Markle is said to have rented near his former home in Rosarito, Mexico.
Markle Denies Allegations
Markle has previously admitted to paying for sex in the Philippines but has denied ever possessing child abuse imagery, dismissing his son's accusations as "sick lies."
Duchess of Sussex 'Deeply Distressed'
The Duchess of Sussex was said to be "deeply distressed" by the allegations. She revealed that seven years ago she received a letter via the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection containing "troubling and disturbing allegations" about her father, but was assured the matter was being investigated.
Metropolitan Police Under Investigation
The Metropolitan Police has acknowledged it never shared the details with other law enforcement agencies. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is now investigating the force's conduct.
Police Advised Against Public Statement
Sources said the duchess wanted to speak out immediately after reading the letter but was advised against doing so by police. The Independent has contacted the U.S. Department of Justice, the Metropolitan Police, Buckingham Palace, and the Sussexes for comment.
