Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 'security measures' at lavish mansion as Montecito 'rocked by crime'

Harry and Meghan are usually private about their family home
Emily Towers

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have reportedly increased security measures at their Montecito home.

It comes after Prince Harry’s battle in court over his security protection…

Prince Harry frowning whilst touching his chin
Prince Harry recently battled in court over his security protection in the UK (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s security at their Montecito home

Prince Harry has been hitting the headlines lately – largely due to his attempts to overturn a decision made regarding his security detail whilst in the UK.

The Duke of Sussex’s taxpayer-funded protection was downgraded after he stepped away from royal duties in 2020 and moved to the US.

As he is no longer a working royal, he no longer receives automatic high-level police protection whilst in the UK. Now, it’s decided on a case-by-case basis.

However, this is a a decision he vehemently disagrees with. He appealed this decision, arguing that the British Home Office had wrongly “singled him out”.

Ultimately, his legal team failed to overturn the decision and in retaliation, Harry did a sit down interview with the BBC.

It was here he admitted to the strained relationship between himself, King Charles and brother Prince William, saying his father isn’t speaking to him.

He also claimed that King Charles could have intervened in the security issue.

Consequently, Harry has come under more scrutiny regarding his ties, or lack thereof, with the royals.

Many even question whether he needs increased security measures whilst visiting the UK.

Now, it seems that Harry is stepping up the protection of his family even across the pond, as his luxurious neighbourhood has reportedly been overshadowed with crime.

Meghan Markle frowning
Meghan Markle has been sharing more on Instagram lately (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Meghan Markle shares glimpse into stunning home

Although this hasn’t been confirmed, HELLO! reports that Harry and Meghan may have increased the amount of security cameras that they have at their idyllic Montecito mansion in California.

This is due to a visible security camera spotted in a clip Meghan shared to her social media.

Harry and Meghan are often very private when it comes to their family home, with Meghan even choosing to film elsewhere whilst recording footage for her Netflix show, With Love, Meghan.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (@meghan)

However, in recent weeks Meghan has increased how much she is sharing on her Instagram page.

A lot of the content has been lifestyle focused, including shots in her kitchen or garden, explaining why they may wish to be more careful.

The instance where a security camera was reportedly spotted saw Meghan arranging flowers underneath a pergola in their garden.

Elsewhere, reports have emerged implying that their local area is experiencing more and more crime.

Harry and Meghan’s Montecito neighbourhood ‘rocked’ with crime

Although Montecito is known to be an upscale area, this doesn’t mean it isn’t impacted by crime.

Just this week a local publication, The Montecito Journal, reported that a police officer had caught someone on probation “engaged in sexual intercourse inside a parked vehicle” on May 2.

Cocaine was also found reportedly found in the suspect’s wallet.

In another scenario, a burglary was reported involving the theft of a Glock pistol and luxury chairs.

The Express has previously reported that the Montecito neighbourhood had been hit by a slew of crimes.

Such incidents included a vehicle break-in and a resident reporting a suspicious individual “knocking on windows and looking into properties”.

Where do Meghan and Harry live in Montecito?

Harry and Meghan boast A-list neighbours at their secluded celebrity hotspot.

Their sprawling property is situated on a private road. They are said to have a lengthy driveway and large security gates.

Despite such necessary measures, Meghan has previously described just how much she loves their home.

In a conversation with The Cut, Meghan gushed about her mansion: “Because you walk in and go… Joy. And exhale. And calm. It’s healing. You feel free.”

Royal Insider has contacted Harry and Meghan’s representatives for comment.

Read more: Secret cost of Prince Harry’s security court case for UK taxpayers

So, what do you think of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepping up their security? Do you think it is necessary? Let us know by leaving a comment on our Facebook page. We want to hear your thoughts!