Thomas Markle detained again after tampering with ankle monitor

According to reports from German publication Bild, Markle was taken back into custody by U.S. authorities after he allegedly removed his electronic ankle monitor. Deputy U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli stated that the device was removed around 1:45 a.m.

Markle had recently been allowed to return to his senior living facility in Lakeland, Florida, but only under the condition of electronic monitoring. He now faces another court appearance in federal court in Tampa.

The re-arrest stems from serious allegations that Markle possessed material depicting sexual abuse of children in California. Investigators secured approximately 78 items, including film negatives, slides, and books, during searches of two storage units near Los Angeles.

The investigation was reportedly initiated by Markle’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., who claims to have discovered the collection of disturbing images while clearing out his father’s former home on the Philippines. He subsequently alerted both Philippine police and the FBI.

Markle, 82, has been struggling with significant health issues, including a stroke and the amputation of his left leg. He returned to the United States from the Philippines due to these health concerns.

A judge has already ordered an assessment of Markle’s mental competency, with a report due by November 20. Thomas Markle has denied the allegations against him.