Thomas Markle Sr has denied allegations that he possessed child pornography, after his son claimed he found hundreds or thousands of disturbing images at his father’s home in Cebu, the Philippines.
Thomas Jr said he was “horrified” after allegedly uncovering the material in four large boxes at the property. The Cebu City Police Office has confirmed that Thomas Sr is under investigation, with the case being handled by the Women and Children Protection Center.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Thomas Sr said: “I’m shocked, I’m hurt and I’m very upset that my son is making these accusations against me. I could never do what I’m being accused of. It’s the worst thing anyone could accuse me of.”
He added: “This is bulls***. It’s just a bunch of lies. It’s sick. I have no idea why Tom is trying to destroy me with these lies.”
The allegations have also prompted a response from Thomas Sr’s estranged daughter, the Duchess of Sussex, who said she was “deeply distressed” by the reports.
Meghan Markle said she had previously received “troubling and disturbing allegations against my father” in 2018. She said those accusations led her to decide “not to allow him to have contact with our children”.
Thomas Jr’s account prompted authorities in the Philippines to investigate the claims. No finding against Thomas Sr is stated, and he has strongly denied the allegations.
