Meghan’s father Thomas Markle detained after allegedly cutting off ankle monitor, officials say
Detention after monitor allegation
Thomas Markle was detained in Florida after allegedly removing his ankle monitor, according to justice department officials in Los Angeles. A spokesperson said a judge ordered him jailed without bond and that he is now in federal custody.
Arrest and evidence claims
Markle was first arrested last week after the FBI searched storage units in Los Angeles under warrants, the Justice Department said. The units were registered to him and had been rented since 2008; the last payment was made in October this year.
Witnesses “positively identified” Markle in two images believed to contain child sexual abuse material. The report does not say that a court has determined the allegations to be true.
Pretrial terms and responses
Markle appeared in court after his arrest, but no plea was taken. The appearance set conditions for his pretrial release, including home detention. US attorney for Central California Bill Essayli wrote on X on Tuesday that “Release conditions are court orders, not suggestions,” referring to the alleged monitor removal. FBI director Kash Patel said last week Markle had “allegedly targeted innocent children” through his criminal actions.
Key points
- Thomas Markle is in federal custody after allegedly removing his ankle monitor, officials said.
- A judge ordered him jailed without bond, citing housing, safety and court-appearance concerns.
- The case concerns images believed to contain child sexual abuse material; no plea was taken at his court appearance.
- Meghan said she was deeply distressed and expressed concern for any children who may have been harmed.