Crime/Police
Governor and Premier Appeal To Public For Help To Solve Murders In The BVI
British Virgin Islands Governor John Rankin and Premier Natalio Wheatley have appealed to the public to share any information relating to murders of Kemo Lettsome, Yan Edwards and Jahkeem Christopher with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
“Further to the National Security Council meeting, I, as Governor, and I, as Premier, join the RVIPF in appealing for information into the murder of Mr. Lettsome, as well as the continued need for information in relation to the murders earlier this year of Yan Edwards and Jahkeem Christopher,” a join statement said.
The appeal came after the Deputy Police Commissioner St Clair Amory briefed the National Security Council on May 1 on the status of the investigation into the murder of 37-year-old Lettsome which occured at a residence near Stickett in Long Look on Sunday, April 30 at around 6:30 p.m.
RVIPF Major Incident Team said Lettsome was “gunned down senselessly and defenselessly.”
Initial inquiries indicate that the shooter drove by the residence in a vehicle, discharged several bullets, and fled the scene in the same vehicle.
The police need the help of the public to solve the murders.
“Those who saw something or heard something about any of the murders, must say something. Absolutely, we believe that no dispute is worth taking someone’s life.
We are determined to support the RVIPF in bringing to account those responsible for murders and other acts of gun violence, and we call on the entire community to help to bring these perpetrators to justice,” the Governor and Premier’s statement added.
Detectives are asking for witnesses or persons with information to contact the Major Incident Team at 368-9410.
Alternatively, persons can give information anonymously through the Crimestoppers hotline number 800-8744.
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.
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