New York City will be stepping up security measures for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their future visits to the city, following a concerning incident in May 2023. The couple faced a harrowing experience when paparazzi engaged in a risky car chase, prompting the NYPD to reassess their security protocols.
After investigating the incident, the NYPD concluded that the paparazzi’s behavior was reckless, although no charges were filed. The relentless pursuit of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle led to near collisions with other vehicles, pedestrians, and even police officers. The couple’s spokesperson described the incident as a “near catastrophic car chase” orchestrated by a group of aggressive paparazzi.
Julian Phillips, the former NYPD deputy commissioner of public information, highlighted the challenges faced by officers in ensuring the safety of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Despite the chaotic situation, the couple arrived at their destination unscathed, with no reported collisions, injuries, or arrests.
The NYPD’s letter emphasized the paparazzi’s blatant disregard for traffic laws and safety, prompting a reevaluation of security measures for the royal couple. Both the NYPD and the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office ultimately determined that there was insufficient evidence to make any arrests in connection to the incident.
As a result, New York City authorities are committed to enhancing security resources for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle during their future visits. The NYPD plans to allocate additional resources to ensure the couple’s protection and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The safety and well-being of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex remain a top priority for law enforcement agencies in New York City.