Local News
D’Moi Hodge Named Inaugural VIBassador, Presented with Two Cheque
In a heartwarming welcome home ceremony, D’Moi Hodge was presented with two significant cheques.
The event, attended by Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, showcased the government’s commitment to supporting local talent and honoring their achievements.
During the ceremony, Premier Wheatley presented D’Moi with a cheque of $20,000 as part of the VIBassador program. This initiative, introduced by the government, aims to recognize and support individuals who bring pride and distinction to the Virgin Islands. The generous cheque served as a testament to D’Moi’s outstanding accomplishments and the government’s belief in his potential.
In addition to the financial reward, Premier Wheatley made a special announcement that further highlighted D’Moi’s impact on the community. The Cane Garden Bay Basketball Court will be renamed the “D’Moi Hodge Basketball Court” in honor of the young athlete. This tribute not only recognizes D’Moi’s achievements but also serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of athletes.
District 2 Representative, Honourable Melvin Mitch Turnbull, expressed his admiration for D’Moi and revealed plans to feature his name prominently at the center of the court once it undergoes renovation. This symbolic gesture will ensure that D’Moi’s legacy remains embedded in the heart of the basketball court, serving as a constant reminder of his dedication and success.
As the ceremony continued, D’Moi received another cheque worth $5,000, this time presented by the National Bank of the Virgin Islands. The bank’s continued support demonstrated their commitment to nurturing local talent and investing in the future of the British Virgin Islands.
The presentation of these cheques at the welcome home ceremony not only celebrated D’Moi’s achievements but also highlighted the government’s dedication to supporting and honoring exceptional individuals like him.
Crime/Police
BVI Police Make Strides in Robbery and Property Crime Investigations

A crackdown on violent crime in the British Virgin Islands has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, authorities announced Friday, March 28.
In a series of targeted search operations, police recovered a semi-automatic handgun and dozens of rounds of ammunition, marking a significant step in the fight against armed robberies and property crimes across the territory.
As part of the ongoing investigations, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) conducted a series of search operations on March 25 at five properties linked to suspects in recent armed robberies. Officers recovered a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol and 41 rounds of assorted ammunition.
Authorities detained eight individuals in connection with the raids. Three were released after questioning, while five have been formally charged.
Ernest Jacobs, 59, Prynce Jacobs, 19, and a 16-year-old male, all of Josiah’s Bay, have been charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of explosives. A 14-year-old male of Purcell Estate has been charged with two counts of robbery. Ravie Joseph, 43, of Josiah’s Bay, has been charged with overstaying a landing permit.
The charges stem from separate robbery incidents on Tortola on March 3. Police had previously charged and remanded another minor in connection with the same crimes.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool lauded officers for their work and underscored the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets.
“The removal of illegal firearms and ammunition from our communities is a critical step in reducing the threat of violence and protecting innocent lives,” Vanterpool said in a statement. “To date, a total of nine illegal firearms and more than 300 rounds of ammunition have been recovered as part of our intensified operations. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt criminal networks and bring offenders to justice.”
Authorities continue to urge residents to come forward with any information that may aid ongoing investigations. Tips can be submitted to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477, or internationally at (284) 800-8477.
Local News
U.S. Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Enforced for British Virgin Islands Travelers

Travelers from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are being urged to check their passport validity before visiting the United States, as officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun enforcing the six-month passport validity rule for entry into U.S. territories and the mainland.
According to a recent bulletin issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor in the BVI, the Civil Registry and Passport Office is advising citizens to renew their passports well in advance to avoid disruptions to travel plans.
“The United States Virgin Islands is enforcing the six-month passport validity requirement for entry to U.S. Territories and mainland,” the bulletin stated. “As such, all citizens are encouraged to renew their passports well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.”
The advisory also reminded British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British passport holders that they are eligible to renew their passports up to nine months before their expiration date. This early renewal process is designed to prevent last-minute complications and ensure uninterrupted travel.
Authorities strongly recommend that all travelers verify their passport validity before making travel arrangements. The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains available for assistance and inquiries regarding renewal procedures.
For further information, BVI residents are encouraged to contact the Civil Registry and Passport Office at 468-3035.
Crime/Police
Drew Farrell Charged With Manslaughter in Virgin Gorda Stabbing

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have charged Drew Farrell, 42, of The Valley, Virgin Gorda, in connection with a fatal stabbing that claimed the life of Rasheel Thomas Alexander.
Farrell who remains in police custody is expected to appear before the Magistrate’s Court in the coming days.
The charge follows an ongoing investigation into the stabbing incident, which has drawn significant public attention. Police have not yet disclosed details surrounding the circumstances of the attack.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward. Tips can be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477. International callers can reach Crime Stoppers at (284) 800-8477.
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
USVI Artist Pressure Robbed at Gunpoint After Black on Black Concert
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Barbadian Woman Dies Following Late-Night Crash in Brewers Bay
-
Uncategorized1 week ago
VG Stabbing Victim Identified as Thomas Alexander
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Man Robbed at Gunpoint After Receiving Roadside Assistance in Tortola
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Teen Pulls Gun, Stabs Father in Virgin Gorda
-
Crime/Police1 week ago
Gun Creek Stabbing Victim Succumbs To Injuries
-
Uncategorized2 weeks ago
Man Rushed to Hospital with Gunshot Wounds, RVIPF Investigates
-
Uncategorized7 days ago
Akim Stevens Charged in Burglaries After Homeowners Share Video on Social Media