Crime/Police
Fourth Person Charged in Cocaine Seizure; Police Continue Active Investigation
In an ongoing investigation into a significant cocaine, firearms, boat, and ammunition seizure last week Wednesday, the police have charged a fourth individual.
Rico Penn, a 34-year-old resident of Fats Hogs Bay, now faces multiple charges including possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, unlawful possession of a controlled drug, keeping an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Previously, Dion McMaster, 38, and Brady Ghut were also charged with the same four offenses. Additionally, Zuri Reid, 40, and Ruth Gonzalez Tellez, 28, both residents of Belle Vue, were charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
While three more individuals were arrested in connection with the case, they have been released pending further investigations.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) expresses its gratitude for the support and cooperation received during this active and dynamic investigation. The commitment of law-abiding community members bolsters the determination of the RVIPF to continue serving and protecting the Virgin Islands.
Undeterred by those attempting to evade detection and prosecution, the RVIPF remains resolute in its efforts to bring offenders to justice. Investigators urge anyone with useful information to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide anonymous tips through the Crimestoppers hotline at 8008477.
The investigation continues as officers pursue multiple leads, ensuring that the Virgin Islands remain a safe and secure community.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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