The lawsuit challenging Prince Harry’s U.S. visa status has ended in secrecy. The Heritage Foundation had pushed for the release of Harry’s visa documents, arguing his past drug use should disqualify him from residing in America. However, the case was abruptly terminated by Judge Carl J. Nichols, with all details sealed. What actually happened? Read on to find out!
What the Sealed Court Ruling Means for Harry’s U.S. Stay?
The lawsuit against Prince Harry’s visa status, filed by the conservative Heritage Foundation, has been dropped. Newsweek reveals that this case was terminated on September 9, 2024. The Duke of Sussex had mentioned in his memoir, Spare, that he used drugs like cocaine, marijuana, and magic mushrooms.
According to him, these substances didn’t just help him escape reality—they allowed him to redefine it. Under their influence, he let go of rigid preconceptions and saw a more beautiful, truthful world. Heritage had sued the Department of Homeland Security, demanding Harry’s visa records, claiming his drug use should have disqualified him from living and working in the U.S.
But now, the case is officially over, with several sealed orders filed in Washington D.C. before Judge Carl J. Nichols. However, the details are still not known. Kyle Brosnan, chief counsel for The Heritage Foundation’s Oversight Project, believes that Harry’s admissions of illegal drug use could make him ineligible for entry into the U.S.
They had sued to determine if he received special treatment from the government. Brosnan mentioned that the judge’s ruling is sealed, and they have no details on the outcome. He highlighted that the case is unique, and they plan to monitor it.
Did Harry Get Special Treatment?
Heritage suggested in filings that the Duke of Sussex either lied about his past drug use or received favourable treatment due to his royal status. Their lawyers argued that the case arose mainly because Harry admitted to multiple drug violations in writing, reportedly even boasting about it.
Government lawyers previously argued that they couldn’t confirm or deny the existence of additional records sought by Heritage. They claimed that acknowledging these records would invade Prince Harry’s privacy. The records are highly sensitive as they could disclose Prince Harry’s U.S. status.
Previously, the judge wanted to check Harry’s visa records privately. In April, lawyers from President Joe Biden’s administration confirmed they had followed the judge’s order. Nichols was deciding whether to dismiss the case or quickly rule in favour of Heritage when the sealed orders were issued.
However, there’s a chance these orders might be unsealed later. Let us see what the future holds. For more updates on the royal family, keep checking Soap Opera Daily! What are your opinions about the case? Let us know in the comments below!