Meghan Markle’s niece, Noelle Rasmussen, has spoken publicly about the allegations involving her grandfather, Thomas Markle Sr., saying they did not come as a surprise to her. In an interview with The Telegraph, Rasmussen described a longstanding feeling that something about him seemed wrong, while clarifying that she had never been victimized by him.
The comments come amid an investigation by Philippine authorities into allegations concerning child sexual abuse images reportedly found on Thomas Markle’s property. Thomas has denied the sex crime allegations. The case has also brought renewed attention to tensions within the Markle family, including disagreements between Rasmussen’s mother, Samantha Markle, and her uncle, Thomas Markle Jr., who reportedly alerted authorities.
Markle Family Divisions and Investigation
Rasmussen also addressed the uncertainty surrounding her grandfather, saying she had not been victimized by him.
“I don’t think he would attack family, but when you do not know what somebody’s capable of, you can’t assume,”
she told The Telegraph.
Her remarks contrast with those of her mother, Samantha Markle, who has publicly defended Thomas Sr. and criticized her brother, Thomas Markle Jr., for reporting the allegations to Philippine authorities.
Meghan Markle has also explained why she cut off contact between her father and her children. The Duchess reportedly received a letter containing allegations about Thomas Sr. in 2019. London’s Metropolitan Police confirmed that it had received a letter making claims about alleged offending outside the UK and passed it to the Sussexes for their awareness.
Philippine authorities are continuing their investigation, with forensic examination of the reported material expected to help determine the next steps. Thomas Markle Sr. has denied the allegations, and the claims have not been established as proven in court.