Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Granted Enhanced Security Measures for Upcoming Visits to New York City

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Receive Additional Security for Future Trips to New York City 235

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Matt Dunham - WPA Pool/Getty Images

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will have extra security during their upcoming visit to New York City. This decision comes after a car chase involving the couple in May 2023.

A letter from the New York Police Department, obtained by NBC New York on Friday, February 29, revealed that in September 2023, the police determined that the paparazzi had behaved recklessly while chasing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Although no charges have been filed by the couple following the incident, they will be provided with additional security measures for their future trips to the Big Apple.

News of Harry and Meghan’s future security detail comes one day after The Daily Beast published a December 2023 statement from the NYPD that revealed the car chase could prompt arrests.

The NYPD intelligence chief wrote to the Metropolitan Police in London, stating, "We found the following: reckless disregard of vehicle and traffic laws and persistently dangerous and unacceptable behavior on the part of the paparazzi during the night in question. Our conclusion, upon review with the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, is that we have sufficient evidence to arrest two individuals for reckless endangerment."

In May 2023, Meghan, aged 42, and Harry, aged 38, made a trip to New York City with Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland. Their purpose was to attend the 2023 Women of Vision Awards where Meghan was recognized as one of the honorees.

After the awards ceremony, the trio left the venue and decided to take a taxi back to their hotel. However, their journey was not without interruption as they were followed by a group of photographers. The NYPD reported that these cameramen used various modes of transportation such as vehicles, scooters, and bicycles in a way that required the security team to make evasive maneuvers multiple times.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to Receive Additional Security for Future Trips to New York City 233

Karwai Tang/WireImage)

Harry and Meghan’s representatives informed We in a statement that the incident lasted over two hours. They mentioned facing several close calls with other drivers, pedestrians, and NYPD officers.

In a statement in May 2023, a spokesperson emphasized that being a public figure should not endanger anyone's safety. They expressed concern about the dissemination of the images, obtained through intrusive means, which could pose a danger to all parties involved.

After their high-profile chase, Harry and Meghan faced criticism and were accused of exaggerating the incident. According to a source who spoke exclusively to Us at the time, the couple was taken aback by the negative comments.

The insider shared with Us later that month, "It's really hurtful and uncalled for when people doubt their experience. Despite the fear of being in the public eye, Harry and Meghan are determined to continue standing up for themselves and speaking out against injustice."

Editor's P/S:

The incident involving Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's car chase in New York City highlights the need for increased security measures for high-profile individuals. The reckless behavior of the paparazzi posed a significant risk to the couple's safety, and it is imperative that law enforcement takes appropriate action to prevent similar incidents in the future.

It is understandable that Harry and Meghan have faced criticism for speaking out about their experience, but it is important to recognize the validity of their concerns. Being a public figure should not mean that one's safety is compromised. The couple's decision to continue speaking out against injustice is commendable, and it is hoped that their actions will bring about positive change in the way that celebrities are treated by the media.