Crime/Police
NSC approves $20,000 reward in connection with recent murders
The National Security Council (NSC) said in a statement on Monday that it has approved a proposal to offer a reward of $20,000 in obtaining information that will lead to the successful prosecution of offenders for each of the two most recent murders.
SEE THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW
The National Security Council (NSC) met today for an emergency meeting at which the body condemned the two recent brazen murders in the Territory, and also discussed the current security situation. The Council was briefed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool on the steps the police are taking to reassure the community, including increased patrolling.
As a further sign of its commitment, the Council approved the proposal to offer a reward of twenty thousand dollars ($20,000) in obtaining information that will lead to the successful prosecution of offenders for each of these two most recent murders.
Council is encouraging the community to assist the Police by calling in with tips at Crime Stoppers and the confidential and untraceable hotline 800-8477[TIPS], 800-847-8477 and 368-9339. Council recognised that persons may have witnessed these brazen crimes, one of which was committed during daylight; therefore, any information that can be provided to the authorities may be helpful.
Council reassures the public that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force is using every available tool to bring criminals to justice and to arrest the current trend of escalating crime, involving firearms.
The NSC reiterated its paramount concern for the safety and security for the people of the Virgin Islands and reaffirmed its commitment to a zero tolerance policy on crime.
The National Security Council considers matters relating to internal security and any significant security developments in the Territory, including the occurrence of significant criminal activity. The NSC comprises the Governor, as Chairman and members, including the Premier; one other Minister, who is the Deputy Premier and Minister for Communication and Works; the Attorney General (ex-officio) and the Commissioner of Police (ex-officio).
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Richard Barronville and Khalid Smith have been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and unlawful possession of explosives following a routine inspection of a vessel in the Frenchman’s Cay area on Thursday by the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Marine Base Joint Task Force.
A statement from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) indicated that the two men—Barronville, 32, of Long Bush, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Smith, 24, from the United States—are expected to appear before the Magistrates’ Court at the next available sitting.
They were arrested on November 14 shortly after 11 a.m. by members of the Joint Task Force, which included officers from the RVIPF and His Majesty’s Customs.
A firearm and ammunition were discovered in the possession of the duo, who were subsequently taken to the Road Town Police Station.
The RVIPF urges anyone with information regarding individuals in possession of illegal firearms to contact Crime Stoppers confidentially at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas at (284) 800-8477, or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking assistance from the public in locating K’Shawn Martin, 18, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent shooting incident. Martin, described as 5’9” with a slim build, dark skin, and black hair, is being linked to the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, on Sand Box Road.
Authorities report that Martin, last known to reside in the Sand Box Road area, may be armed and is considered dangerous. The RVIPF warns the public not to approach Martin if seen and instead urges anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the search for Martin, police are also requesting information regarding the whereabouts of another individual, Shemoi Carey, who is also sought by the RVIPF’s Criminal Investigation Department. Tips can be directed to RVIPF’s CID at 368-5323. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
-
Crime/Police1 week agoTwo Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Local News1 week agoTola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police2 weeks agoK’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News2 weeks agoVirgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Local News3 days agoVirgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoTortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Crime/Police2 days agoTeen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
-
Local News1 week agoBVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal