A man carrying a 'heavy rucksack' is alleged to have breached the security of Kensington Palace on two separate occasions in the run-up to Christmas, leading to his arrest and charges of trespassing on a protected site.
Charges and Courtroom Disorder
Derek Egan, 39, from Hillingdon, is accused of scaling a fence and entering the palace gardens on Sunday, 21 December. After being arrested and released on police bail following this first alleged intrusion, he was arrested again just two days later on Tuesday, 23 December, for a repeat offence.
Egan was due to appear at Bromley Magistrates’ Court on Christmas Eve, where he was remanded in custody. However, he reportedly refused to leave his prison van for that hearing. He subsequently appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, where his behaviour was described as disorderly.
According to reports, Egan burst out with abuse and hammered on the glass of the dock. District Judge Sam Goozee stated he would proceed with a hearing in Egan's absence on 6 January due to this conduct. The judge did not grant bail.
Heightened Security Concerns
The incidents triggered a response from the Met Police’s Royal and Specialist Protection Command, with officers scrambled to search the extensive palace gardens. It is understood the intruder was intercepted in the grounds and did not gain entry to any buildings.
Royal aides have been informed of the security breaches. A significant aspect of the case is that the Crown Prosecution Service requires the Attorney General's consent to prosecute, citing national security concerns related to the Royal Family. The Attorney General must assess any further security risks before granting this consent.
Royal Residents Unharmed
Kensington Palace is the official residence of ten members of the Royal Family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales. However, the couple's main home has been Adelaide Cottage in Windsor since 2022, and it is understood they were staying at their private country home, Anmer Hall on the Sandringham estate, during both intrusions.
Other residents include the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, Princess Eugenie and her family, and Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. It is not clear which, if any, royals were present on the grounds at the time.
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed the charges relate to trespassing on a protected site and breaching bail conditions. Egan’s pleas are expected to be confirmed at the next hearing.
