Prince Harry reportedly accused the New York Police Department (NYPD) of a “cover-up” and demanded arrests following the “high-speed car chase” involving him, Meghan Markle, and her mother, Doria Ragland, in May 2023. The Duke of Sussex expressed growing frustration over the handling of the incident, according to emails and letters obtained by the Daily Mail.
Harry’s Pressure for Action
The royal reportedly pressured the NYPD to expedite their investigation, insisting on arrests the day after the chase. A letter from his security firm, TorchStone, to the NYPD stated:
“The Duke feels intentionally misled and is suspicious of a cover-up.”
The demand for action came after conflicting correspondence from John Hart, the NYPD’s top intelligence officer. In one letter, Hart initially claimed there wasn’t sufficient evidence to justify arrests. However, three months later, a second letter indicated otherwise, further fueling Prince Harry’s suspicions.
A Chaotic Night in New York
The incident unfolded as Harry, Meghan, and Doria left the Ms. Foundation for Women of Vision Awards at the Ziegfeld Ballroom. Members of the couple’s security detail described the ordeal as “chaotic” and potentially life-threatening. Chris Sanchez, a member of TorchStone, told CNN:
“It was very chaotic. This could have been fatal. Photographers were jumping curbs and running red lights.”
Footage captured by TMZ showed the Duke and Duchess in a yellow taxi at one point during the alleged pursuit. Despite their claims, no arrests have been made in connection to the incident.
Tensions Between Harry and Authorities
Prince Harry’s frustration reportedly escalated as the investigation dragged on. Emails from TorchStone conveyed his belief that the NYPD was withholding critical information. One email noted his anger at the lack of progress, alleging intentional delays and a lack of transparency.
The timing of these developments coincided with Harry’s ongoing legal battles in the UK over security concerns, adding further strain to his relationship with authorities.
The Public Reaction
While Harry’s team has maintained that the incident was dangerously reckless, skeptics questioned the severity of the events. Some reports suggested inconsistencies in the Sussexes’ version of the events, prompting debate over the exact nature of the “chase.”
Looking Ahead
The case remains unresolved, with no arrests made as of yet. The NYPD has not publicly addressed Harry’s allegations of a cover-up, leaving questions about the true events of that night.