Thomas Markle Senior, Meghan Markle's estranged father, is back in federal custody after allegedly cutting off his electronic ankle monitor while awaiting trial on a charge involving possession of child sexual abuse material.
Federal prosecutors say Markle violated the conditions of his release, and a Florida judge has ordered him detained pending trial. Investigators also reveal new details about evidence reportedly recovered from Los Angeles-area storage units, including film negatives that an FBI agent says contained approximately 18 suspected images of child sexual abuse material.
Thomas Markle Senior denies the allegations and has called them "sick lies." A court-ordered competency evaluation is also underway.
Meanwhile, sources close to Meghan tell PEOPLE that the Duchess of Sussex is following developments while concentrating on her children, her family and her charitable work. Her appearance with Prince Harry at the European Parliament in Brussels continues to attract conflicting reactions, with some commentators criticizing her subdued appearance and others urging compassion.
A Florida congresswoman calls for Thomas Markle to receive the death penalty, prompting a debate about the presumption of innocence and the appropriate response to the allegations.
Plus, broadcaster Mark Dolan predicts Harry and Meghan's return to Britain could collapse, suggesting the couple may move back to the United States within a year. And a Telegraph columnist argues that Prince Harry should abandon his independent royal-adjacent career and return to official royal duties.
Questions this episode answers: Why was Thomas Markle Senior arrested again? Did Meghan Markle's father remove his ankle monitor? What did FBI agents reportedly discover in California storage units? Has Thomas Markle been convicted of a crime? Why has a judge ordered a competency examination? How is Meghan responding to her father's latest arrest? Are Prince Harry and Meghan planning to move back to America? Could Harry return to royal duties?
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Palace Intrigue is a daily British royal family podcast covering King Charles, Meghan Markle, Prince Harry, Kate Middleton and the House of Windsor. New episodes every day. Follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Part of the Caloroga Media network.
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