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Two months after Meghan Markle moved back to the U.K. with Prince Harry and their two children, news broke that her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., was under investigation for sexual abuse images involving children.

On Oct. 29, authorities obtained a warrant to examine the alleged evidence from Thomas Sr.’s home in Cebu City, Philippines. On Nov. 6, the Duchess of Sussex‘s father was arrested by federal agents in Florida, just outside of Tampa, on charges related to child sexual abuse material.

The graphic material was initially found by Meghan’s brother, Thomas Markle Jr., who told The Sun, “What I saw made me sick to the stomach—all this stuff was just dumped on me, and I didn’t know what to do. I knew right away it was highly illegal and would land me in jail for a long time if I didn’t get rid of it. I felt betrayed, angry, and disgusted—and realized I had to report him.”

Prior to Thomas Sr.’s arrest, a source close to Meghan said that she was “deeply distressed” by the news of what had allegedly been found at her father’s former home. It was also revealed that a letter containing “troubling allegations” about him had been sent to London police in 2018, and the former Suits star was reportedly made aware of that.

In her statement, the duchess said, “I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light… my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed… Although the breadth of what has now been uncovered is more sickening than one could ever imagine, my sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children.”

This news isn’t gossipy royal family drama someone stirred up. It’s a serious criminal case and a crisis for the Markle family, which Meghan is estranged from but still a part of. And although the Sussexes are no longer working royals, they are still part of the royal family as well.

So far, Buckingham Palace has not commented on the investigation or Thomas Sr.’s arrest. And there are reports now that the Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton) is a bit worried about staying completely silent on something like this.

The royal family’s mantra has always been “never complain, never explain,” but some things have gotten a response, like when King Charles learned that his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested. Therefore, to remain silent at this time feels wrong to Kate, according to Closer.

A source told the publication, “There have been arguments and some tense moments, and [Prince William and Kate] still can’t agree on the best way forward. They’re coming at it from completely different perspectives. Kate feels desperately sorry for Meghan—she’s a mother with two young children and Kate can’t help but think about how difficult this must be for her.

“William is more concerned about the repercussions and keeping his distance. Kate doesn’t want to undermine William, but she doesn’t want to be made to appear heartless either. She’s trying to find a middle ground, and that’s proving difficult.”

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