Prince Harry’s security will be “enhanced” for his upcoming trip to New York following a “reckless” incident, with taxpayers bearing the cost. The Duke of Sussex, 39, is set to attend the Diana Award Event in New York later this month, where he will also advance several of his patronages and philanthropic initiatives, according to a spokesperson for the prince.

This royal trip coincides with the UN General Assembly High-level Week and Climate Week, taking place from September 21 to 28 and September 22 to 29, respectively. However, the exact dates of Harry’s visit to New York have not yet been confirmed.

The decision to ramp up security comes after an incident in May 2023, where Harry, Meghan, and Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, were pursued by paparazzi in a high-speed car chase through the streets of Manhattan. This led to the NYPD, including a lead car from their security team, having to take evasive actions multiple times to avoid collisions and being trapped on side streets.

In response to this “reckless disregard” for traffic laws by the paparazzi, the New York Police Department wrote to the Metropolitan Police in London to notify them of the need to “enhance the security resources afforded to the Duke and Duchess on future visits to the city.” The incident has been reviewed by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, which concluded there was sufficient evidence to arrest two individuals for reckless endangerment.

The public has reacted strongly to the increased security for Prince Harry, with many criticizing the use of taxpayer money to protect a royal who no longer undertakes official duties. Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams suggested that the overlap between Harry’s events and Prince William’s Earthshot Prize event was likely intentional, with Harry aiming to attract additional publicity.

While Prince Harry’s presence in New York is expected to draw significant attention, the decision to increase security and the associated costs have sparked controversy and backlash among the public.