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Crime/Police

House Burglaries On The Rise, Confirms RVIPF

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The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have confirmed that house burglaries are on the rise throughout main island Tortola

A June 8 RVIPF statement said the main areas affected within Road Town are include Huntums Ghut, Horse path, Pasea Estate, Lower Estate, Free bottom, Main Street and McNamara.

According to Police, perpetrators often gained entry into homes during the day through unsecured windows, especially those obscured from the public’s view.

Thieves predominately stole cash, jewelry and tools.

Head of the Criminal Investigations Department Acting Detective Chief Inspector Vernon Larocque said homeowners oftentimes secured all their windows except for one in need of repair.

“In too many instances, this is the window that a perpetrator uses to gain access. Homeowners should take the time to repair the locking mechanism for any inoperable windows and lock all windows that allow for easy access. Burglars are looking for any weak points of entry. If there is not an easy way to enter, a burglar will likely move on,” Larocque said.

While there is no full proof way to stop burglaries, Larocque has advised residents to install home security cameras.

“Another easy deterrent is closed circuit television. In this modern era, CCTV is accessible, inexpensive, and easy to install. The footage can be stored remotely on the cloud and can be monitored in real time from any location around the world. Law enforcement can also be alerted while the offence is being committed.”

He added: “While there are no full-proof measures to prevent burglaries, there is some peace of mind knowing that even if you are not at home, there are eyes keeping watch and recording activities in and around your property.”

Persons with any information on burglaries are asked to confidentially call the Crime Stoppers line 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas call 1-284-800-8477.

You can also contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit on 368-9339.

Crime/Police

Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands

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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.

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Crime/Police

Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay 

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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.

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Crime/Police

K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in  Shooting on Sandbox Road

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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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