Prince Harry has raised serious concerns over the handling of the investigation into a “near fatal” paparazzi car chase involving him and Meghan Markle in New York last year.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who described the May 2023 incident as terrifying, had pushed for a thorough probe, but Harry now suspects a possible cover-up by the NYPD, according to his security team.
A member of Harry’s private security revealed to the Daily Mail that the Duke “feels intentionally misled and is suspicious of a cover-up” regarding the slow progress of the case.
John Hart, the NYPD’s top intelligence officer, reportedly sent two conflicting letters about the investigation. In September 2023, Hart informed London police there was insufficient evidence to make arrests. However, by December, during Harry’s London court hearing about his right to pay for police protection in the UK, Hart claimed enough evidence existed for potential arrests—though none have been made.
The Sussexes' hired security firm later issued a stern warning to Hart over the “slow pace” of the investigation. Acting on Harry’s behalf, they stated the Duke’s intention to file a formal complaint against the NYPD for their handling of the case.
Prince Harry has also reportedly contacted California Governor Gavin Newsom in an effort to expedite his requests with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office.
In response, Hart allegedly remarked, “Okay — based on this we will refer all case updates or lack thereof only through counsel.”
The case remains unresolved, and no arrests or charges have been filed so far, leaving questions about accountability and the progress of the investigation.
