A 39-year-old man, Derek Egan, has been arrested after being found twice on the grounds of Prince William and Princess Catherine’s Kensington Palace residence, days before Christmas. Egan, carrying a heavy rucksack, was discovered in the palace gardens on December 21 and 23.
He has been charged with two counts of trespassing and is currently in custody. During court appearances, he reportedly shouted abuse and refused to leave a prison van. He pleaded guilty, and a hearing in his absence is scheduled for January 6. Bail was denied due to the potential for a custodial sentence.
The Crown Prosecution Service noted that national security concerns require Attorney General consent before prosecution, given the involvement of the Royal Family. Former Royal Protection head Dai Davies expressed concern that Egan reoffended after previously being granted bail, highlighting ongoing risks to Kensington Palace residents.
Authorities emphasized the need to investigate motives, mental health concerns, and security lapses, noting that several royals still reside at Kensington Palace.
