Meghan Markle 'devastated' by father's arrest amid child abuse allegations
What's the story
Meghan Markle is reportedly "devastated" by the recent allegations against her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr. The 82-year-old was arrested on November 6 after Los Angeles authorities allegedly found child sexual abuse material in storage units he rented. The allegations were first made public by his son, Thomas Jr., on October 22. If convicted, Thomas Sr. could face up to 20 years in prison.
Legal proceedings
Thomas Sr. was released on strict conditions
During his court appearance in Tampa, Thomas Sr. didn't enter a plea and was released on his own recognizance under strict conditions.
These included house arrest, electronic monitoring, and no contact with minors.
He was taken back into custody on Tuesday, November 10, after he allegedly cut off his ankle monitor.
Magistrate Judge Lindsay S. Griffin revoked his pretrial release and ordered him to be detained until trial completion.
Family support
'There's a lot of sadness'
A source told PEOPLE, "She is devastated. This is her dad, someone she grew up trusting and was very close to for many years."
"The allegations are devastating for her. There's a lot of sadness."
Her mother, Doria Ragland, has been cooperating with authorities and was shown redacted versions of suspected child sexual abuse images to help identify her former husband.
"Meghan and her mother are very close," an insider said. "They're supporting each other."
Public statement
Markle was given a letter from Thomas Sr.'s first wife
Markle has also expressed her willingness to cooperate with authorities.
Markle said in a statement that the Metropolitan Police had alerted her years earlier to sexual abuse allegations involving young girls, sharing a letter from her father's first wife, Roslyn Loveless, about his conduct.
The Metropolitan Police have since admitted they didn't share this information with other law enforcement agencies.
Work focus
Prince Harry and Markle have continued public commitments
Despite the personal turmoil, Markle and Prince Harry have continued with their public commitments.
They recently attended events supporting online child safety in Brussels.
"Keeping her work commitments doesn't mean she's any less upset," a source said.
"She's trying to focus on her family, her kids and the work that matters to her."
The couple plans to spend Thanksgiving in the UK and hopes to celebrate Christmas at their new home with Ragland joining them.