Thomas Markle Detained After Allegedly Removing Ankle Monitor
A federal magistrate judge in Tampa ordered Thomas Markle held without bond Tuesday. Prosecutors say he removed his court-ordered ankle monitor at 1:45 a.m.
82-year-old Markle was arrested Nov. 6 in Lakeland, Florida.
78 items seized from two Los Angeles-area storage units, the FBI says.
20 years in federal prison is the maximum sentence he faces.
Markle has denied the allegations, calling them "sick lies."
Why it matters: Markle loses home detention and stays jailed pending trial. Prosecutor Bill Essayli said, "Release conditions are court orders, not suggestions."
The judge earlier ordered a competency exam, citing his age, health and memory.
Meghan says she cut off contact with her father to protect her children.