The half-brother of Prince Harry’s girlfriend, Meghan Markle, has been arrested over claims he held a gun to his girlfriend’s head during a drunken row.
Thomas Markle Jr, 50, was arrested on Thursday at his home in Grants Pass, Oregon, the Mail on Sunday reported.
He was later charged with menacing, pointing a firearm at another person and unlawful use of a weapon.
Deputy Jill Elardi, of Josephine County Sheriff’s Office, told the paper: ‘He was arrested at 11pm on January 12 and released on Friday at 10am.
“He will be going to court for it.”
The window fitter’s father Thomas Markle Snr, is also the parent of Meghan Markle, 35.
Meghan Markle - In pictures
The news could prove a shock to Prince Harry, who is said to be in a serious relationship with Miss Markle, an actress in hit US show Suits.
Their relationship, which started in the summer, was confirmed last year when Harry launched a stinging attack on the “wave of abuse and harassment” she had received.
Thomas Markle Jr’s ex-wife Tracy Dooley told the Mail: “'He wants what’s best for her.
“They used to be very close but there has been some separation over the years. The last thing he would want to do is to hurt her.”
Speaking earlier this year about his half-sister’s relationship with the Prince, Thomas Markle Jr said the pair were “very much in love”.
He said: “They’re extremely happy together, they look great together and she’s done good.”
