Meghan Markle’s Father Could Face up to 12 Years in Prison if Found Guilty

Meghan Markle's father could face a long time behind bars if convicted.

Trigger Warning: This article contains themes of child sexual abuse that some readers may find distressing.

It has been a rather horrid week for Meghan Markle. Just when she and the family had finally settled down in the UK after security concerns and personal dramas, the disturbing allegations against her estranged father, Thomas Markle, came to light. Now it is being reported that the 82-year-old could face up to 12 years in a Philippine prison if found guilty of child s*x offenses. The Philippines authorities are currently investigating the matter after Markle’s half-brother found troubling images in Thomas’s former home in the country. 

Authorities are currently reviewing material allegedly belonging to Thomas. Philippine interior minister Jonvic Remulla stated that the forensic data is expected to be completed in about a week, but “right now all signs point to a possible sex offender of the grossest kind”. Under the Philippines Anti-Online Sexual Abuse or Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) and Anti-Child Sexual Abuse or Exploitation Materials (CSAEM) Act 2022, a person convicted of child abuse images faces 10 to 12 years in prison. 

Thomas flew back to the US earlier this year and is currently at a rehabilitation center in Florida to continue his medical treatment after his leg amputation. Once the forensic data is complete, the police will decide whether to formally charge him. The country has an extradition treaty with the US, which means authorities could send Thomas to the Philippines to face trial if they decide to charge him. 

The scandal surrounding Thomas has also exposed major lapses in the Met Police’s handling of a 2019 letter detailing the allegations against him, reportedly written by his former wife, Roslyn Loveless. The letter was reportedly passed to the Duchess of Sussex with an assurance it would be investigated. However, the force did not launch a probe, possibly because it was outside its British jurisdiction. But they also didn’t share the allegations with relevant law enforcement agencies. Prompt action could have helped prevent further harm to children. The Met Police is now considering reporting the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). 

To add to the ruckus, the Met Police allegedly couldn't locate the original letter. Markle, who had a copy, sent it to the authorities at their request. The latest report has revealed even bigger gaps in the force’s handling of the situation. The police are not currently investigating Thomas. 

Thomas has denied all allegations, calling them “sick lies”. His daughter, Samantha, has sided with him. However, his son, who had discovered the material and reached out to the authorities, has apologized to Markle for his stance against her over the past several years.

If you know of any children who are being subjected to abuse, please contact The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at (800) 422-4453