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.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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