The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are planning a UK trip next month, but there is now some uncertainty around the security arrangements - leaving the trip hanging in the balance. Back home, however, he will be extremely pleased that there is a new security presence in his neighbourhood thanks to a new Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.
Last week, the brand new Montecito office was unveiled which is located at the Rosewood Miramar Beach resort. The ribbon cutting ceremony was shared on Instagram, along with a message that read: "The Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office was proud to celebrate the grand opening of our new Montecito Office at Rosewood Miramar Beach.
© Instagram/Meghan Markle"This innovative public-private partnership creates a closer operational presence in the community, helping improve responsiveness while strengthening relationships with residents, businesses, and visitors.
"Thank you to our community partners and everyone who joined us for the ribbon cutting. We look forward to serving Montecito from this new location for years to come."
Security at home
© InstagramThe Sussexes' mansion in Montecito, known as Chateau of Riven Rock, has a wide range of security features to keep them safe. Commonplace for all large homes in the area, Harry and Meghan also benefit from a long driveway and security gates. Their estate is rigged with cameras and they have on-the-ground security staff to maintain safety. Forbes has reported that the Sussexes annual security bill could reach an eye-watering $3million.
While staying at Tyler Perry's property in the US, ahead of finding their own permanent base stateside, the couple had to erect extra fences around the vicinity for further privacy from paparazzi.
The Sussexes hit Europe
Ahead of Prince Harry's much anticipated trip to the UK in July, the family are reportedly enjoying a holiday in Europe. The whole family was initially scheduled to visit Britain for five days to attend several Invictus Games engagements and with hopes of family meets. However, it now hangs in the balance if Harry will bring his children to visit, as there are still question marks over the Duke's security arrangements.
During his legal battles with the Home Office and RAVEC (the Royal and VIP Executive Committee), Harry stated in a written witness statement that the UK is central to his children's heritage and a place he wants them to feel at home. However, following his subsequent court losses, he stated plainly that he "can't see a world in which I would bring my wife and children back to the UK at this point" due to safety fears.
It was confirmed on Friday that during their visit they would stay in a mixture of private and royal residences.
