Met Police Probe 2018 Letter as Meghan Confirms Prior Knowledge of Father’s Allegations

Key points

• Metropolitan Police confirmed it is inquiring into whether its Royal and Specialist Protection Command passed a 2018 letter to Meghan regarding allegations against Thomas Markle Sr.
• Meghan stated she was 'deeply distressed' and revealed she was informed of 'disturbing allegations' in 2018, which she said justified keeping her children away from her father.
• Thomas Markle Jr. reported finding alleged child sexual abuse images at his father’s former home in Cebu, Philippines, leading to a digital forensic examination by local police.
• Thomas Markle Sr., 82, denied the claims in an interview, calling them 'sick lies,' while the FBI stated it would investigate any related federal violations.
• Philippine authorities seized Markle’s computer for forensic analysis, with results expected within one week, while the Met focuses on the procedural handling of the 2018 letter.

Background

This development follows the Sussexes’ recent relocation to the UK as 'private citizens' and their ongoing estrangement from Thomas Markle Sr., which began before their 2018 wedding. The family has been navigating security and status issues since returning to Britain, with King Charles III formally confirming their non-royal status in September 2026.

How outlets are covering it

The BBC and The Guardian emphasize the Metropolitan Police’s internal inquiry into the 2018 letter’s handling, highlighting Meghan’s statement that she was assured the allegations were being investigated. The New York Times focuses on Meghan’s explanation that the 2018 letter justified her decision to cut off contact with her father to protect her children. WRAL and The Sun report on the physical discovery of images by Thomas Markle Jr. and Markle Sr.’s denial, while The Guardian notes Markle’s claim that the computers were not in his possession when he moved to the Philippines in 2025. All sources agree on the core facts but differ in emphasis: UK outlets focus on police procedure and Meghan’s statement, while US and tabloid sources focus on the forensic evidence and Markle’s denial.

Why it matters

The case raises questions about the handling of sensitive allegations involving a royal family member and the coordination of international investigations. It also sheds light on the long-standing estrangement between Meghan and her father, providing a new context for their relationship that goes beyond previous media narratives.

What to watch

The Metropolitan Police will conclude its internal inquiry into the 2018 letter, while Philippine authorities will release forensic results from Markle’s computer within one week. The FBI may open a federal investigation if US laws are implicated, and Thomas Markle Jr. has stated he will not speak to his father unless called to give evidence.