Metropolitan Police admit loss of original letter as Meghan provides copy to investigators
The Met confirmed it misplaced the original 2019 letter about alleged abuse by Thomas Markle Sr, while Meghan Markle supplied her own copy to Philippine police.
The Metropolitan Police disclosed that the original 2019 letter containing accusations of alleged offending abroad, which was sent to Meghan and the Duke of Sussex, cannot be located. Meghan Markle kept a copy of the letter and provided it to Philippine investigators probing child-sex-abuse images discovered at Thomas Markle Sr’s former residence. Her half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr, reported finding the images and alerted both local authorities and the FBI.
Thomas Markle Sr has acknowledged paying for sex in the Philippines but denies possessing the material. The Met is now reviewing its procedures in the matter and considering a referral to the police watchdog. Philippine interior minister Jonvic Remulla said a forensic review of the father’s devices will be completed within a week.
Why it matters
The case highlights possible mishandling of serious abuse allegations involving a member of the British royal family.
How this story developed
- Oct 22 Thomas Markle Sr. faces probe after son discovers child porn cache in Philippines home
- Oct 24 Metropolitan Police launched an internal review of its 2019 handling of the allegations against Thomas Markle.
- Oct 26 Philippine officials began a forensic review of the material with results expected in about a week.
- Oct 27 Philippine police have taken custody of four large boxes of possessions surrendered by Thomas Markle Jr. for forensic examination.
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