Crime/Police
Three Charged in Cocaine Seizure, Multiple Arrests Made for Evidence Destruction
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has charged three individuals and made multiple arrests after a high-speed boat chase led to a significant cocaine seizure. The operation, which occurred on Wednesday evening (July 19) also resulted in the confiscation of firearms, a boat, and ammunition.
Dion Leslie McMaster, a 38-year-old resident of Brady Ghut, has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, unlawful possession of a controlled drug, keeping an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition. Additionally, Zuri Reid, aged 40, and Ruth Gonzalez Tellez, aged 28, both residents of Belle Vue, have been charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Further developments have occurred in relation to the destruction and theft of two seized vessels connected to the operation. Over the past 24 hours, several individuals have been arrested in connection with these incidents. One of the seized vessels, suspected to have been involved in the ramming of a police vessel at sea, was intentionally set on fire in a calculated attempt to destroy evidence. Another vessel has been reported missing. Fortunately, thorough examinations conducted by the RVIPF have confirmed that no relevant evidence was destroyed as a result of these actions.
Efforts to bring the offenders to justice remain steadfast and resolute, undeterred by those hoping to evade detection and prosecution. Investigators urge anyone with useful information to come forward and contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide anonymous tips through the Crimestoppers hotline at 8008477.
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.
A shooting incident in close proximity to the Elmore Stoutt High School in the Long Bush area of Road Town has left one man seriously injured and prompted an immediate lockdown at the school.
According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the injured man was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition remains unknown at this time. Details about the suspected assailant or potential motives are still unclear.
The incident, which took place on Pickering Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. today, November 8, led the school administration to enact the lockdown as a precautionary measure to safeguard students and staff. Shortly afterward, parents received official communication from the school, reassuring them that the lockdown had been lifted and that students were safe.
“We understand that such news can be concerning, but please rest assured that all necessary measures were taken to ensure everyone’s safety,” the school stated. “The school day is continuing as normal, and students are safe and secure.”
Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Parents and guardians with questions are also encouraged to reach out directly to the school for further updates on student safety. Further details will be shared as they become available.
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