Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced security apprehensions as their Montecito residence encountered a series of burglaries during their absence, while the couple was in Jamaica.
The local authorities suspect organized gangs orchestrating the crimes, particularly focusing on safes.
Burglary Incidents in Proximity:
A recent burglary, located just a five-minute drive from the Sussexes’ £12 million mansion in Montecito, California, raised concerns.
The incidents occurred while Prince Harry and Meghan were in Jamaica, attending the premiere of the film “Bob Marley: One Love.”
Community Alert and Security Measures:
The Montecito Association, a local community group that includes Harry and Meghan among its residents, issued an alert to the neighborhood.
The alert provided home security tips and relayed a message from Santa Barbara County Sheriff officer Rachel Zick.
Zick highlighted the commonalities in the burglary reports, emphasizing criminal targeting of unoccupied residences near open spaces.
Suspected Pattern and Targeted Items:
Law enforcement noted similarities in the layouts, timings, and targeted items during these burglaries.
The crimes tended to occur between 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., with a recent incident reported on January 24, 2024, in Montecito and two others in Carpinteria.
The primary focus of the suspects appears to be safes.
Security Measures for the Sussexes:
Despite the security concerns, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have a dedicated team of guards, including Christopher Sanchez and Christopher Keenan, who have previously served high-profile individuals such as Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton.
Royal Couple’s Jamaican Visit:
During their surprise visit to Jamaica to attend the premiere of “Bob Marley: One Love,” Harry and Meghan faced criticism for their interaction with Jamaica’s Prime Minister Andrew Holness.
The political context, given Holness’s stance on removing the monarchy, coupled with ongoing health issues within the British royal family, added sensitivity to the situation.
Mixed Reception in Buckingham Palace:
Reports suggest that the timing of Harry and Meghan’s visit, hosted by Brian Robbins, Paramount’s CEO, was met with mixed reactions at Buckingham Palace.
Sources mentioned that the trip was viewed as “not especially welcome back in London” and labeled as “misguided.”
Conclusion:
The incidents in Montecito, coupled with the royal couple’s international engagements, highlight ongoing security challenges and the delicate nature of their public appearances.
The community’s alert underscores the need for heightened vigilance, especially during the Sussexes’ absence from their residence.
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