Meghan Markle’s Father Thomas Markle Allegedly Cuts Off Ankle Monitor Days After Arrest

Thomas Markle Sr., the estranged 82-year-old father of Meghan Markle, was taken back into federal custody after allegedly cutting off his court-ordered ankle monitor just days after his initial arrest. The incident occurred in Florida while he was awaiting trial on a federal charge involving the alleged possession of child sexual abuse material.

According to federal prosecutors, Markle removed the electronic monitoring device at approximately 1:45 a.m. on November 10, 2026. He had been released from custody four days earlier under strict conditions, including home detention and electronic monitoring. First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli confirmed that authorities had taken him back into custody and were seeking to revoke his release.

Markle was initially arrested on November 6 following an FBI investigation involving two storage units in the Los Angeles area that he had reportedly rented for nearly two decades. Investigators seized approximately 78 items, including slides, film negatives and books that allegedly contained child sexual abuse material. Federal prosecutors allege that some of the images included sexually explicit photographs involving Markle and underage girls.

After his first court appearance in Tampa, Florida, a judge allowed Markle to remain out of custody while the case proceeded. However, his release came with several restrictions, including electronic monitoring. The judge also ordered a mental competency evaluation to determine whether he was able to understand the legal proceedings and assist in his own defense.

Following the alleged removal of the ankle monitor, U.S. Magistrate Judge Lindsay S. Griffin revoked Markle’s pretrial release and ordered him detained without bond. The judge cited his violation of release conditions and concerns about whether his living arrangements could adequately ensure his appearance in court and protect public safety. A report from the ordered competency evaluation was expected by November 20.

The case has also attracted widespread attention because of Markle’s estrangement from his daughter, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex. Meghan previously said she was deeply distressed by the allegations and explained that her decision to keep her father away from her children was motivated by concerns for their protection. Thomas Markle has denied the accusations, describing them as false. He has not been convicted, and the federal case remains ongoing.