Crime/Police
Nyron Erickson Slapped with 21 Charges
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has officially charged Nyron Erickson with a total of 21 criminal offences.
On Thursday, September 21, 31-year-old Erickson, a resident of West End, Tortola, was charged with seven counts of Possession of a Prohibited Weapon, eleven counts of Keeping a Firearm Without a License, two counts of Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply Another, and one count of Possession of the Proceeds of Criminal Conduct.
Erickson remains in police custody as he awaits his appearance at the Magistrate’s Court during the next available sitting.
Erickson was detained by the RVIPF on Tuesday evening as he stepped off the ferry from the United States Virgin Islands after spending six months in federal custody on drug trafficking charges.
Local law enforcement officers on September 20 placed Erickson in custody but did not reveal the reason for his detention.
On February 27, the British Virgin Islands resident was extradited to the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) after unsuccessful appeals in the local Court of Appeal and in the United Kingdom Privy Council.
He surrendered to the RVIPF on August 30, 2020, and for more than two years fought his extradition to the USVI to face charges including conspiracy to launder monetary instruments from outside of the United States and conspiracy to conceal more than $10,000 from outside the United States.
After six months in federal custody prosecutors dismissed the case against Erickson.
The arrest and subsequent charges against Erickson are the result of ongoing investigations into high-level organized criminal activities involving interconnected individuals. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) says they are committed to thoroughly investigating and addressing organized criminal activities within the territory, with the utmost priority being the safety and security of the community.
The RVIPF says as the investigation progresses, further updates will be provided to the public.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a warning to the public following a wave of blackmail scams targeting residents across the islands. Numerous individuals have reported receiving disturbing text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically in bitcoin, under threat of exposing allegedly compromising photos or sensitive information if they fail to comply.
RVIPF officials are advising residents to avoid responding or engaging with these messages. The police emphasize that scammers often exploit fear to pressure victims into payment, and any interaction can increase one’s vulnerability to further scams. Instead, recipients are encouraged to report these messages to the RVIPF for investigation and support.
“The RVIPF is actively investigating these cases to safeguard our communities,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis. “We urge residents to report any suspicious messages immediately and to avoid any communication with unknown or threatening contacts.”
To help reduce exposure to scams, the RVIPF advises the public to enhance their online privacy settings, particularly on social media, and to limit the sharing of personal information online.
If you receive or wish to report a blackmail attempt, please contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 for assistance and guidance.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is urging residents and business owners in East End, Tortola, to tighten security in light of a recent surge in burglaries plaguing the area. Over the past week, more than seven incidents have been reported, with hotspots including the neighborhoods of Greenland and Long Look.
The RVIPF is responding to this concerning trend by increasing patrols and advising the public to proactively secure their properties. Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the value of functional security systems, particularly CCTV cameras, as both deterrents and critical tools for investigators.
Protective Measures Suggested by RVIPF
To prevent further incidents and aid in investigations, the RVIPF recommends a series of crime prevention strategies:
- Install and Maintain CCTV Systems: Ensure cameras are positioned to cover entry points and remain operational.
- Lock All Entry Points: Secure doors and windows, especially at night or when properties are vacant.
- Utilize Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can deter intruders by increasing visibility.
- Establish Neighborhood Watch Networks: Keep neighbors informed and report any suspicious activity to the RVIPF promptly.
“The safety of our communities is a priority,” said Acting Commissioner Vanterpool. “But we need the public’s partnership to address these crimes effectively. Functional CCTV systems, secure properties, and vigilant reporting can go a long way in deterring criminal activity.”
Additional patrols have been deployed in the Eastern districts, and detectives are actively investigating the recent burglaries. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
An attempted armed robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill on Fort Hill was thwarted this afternoon when the proprietor successfully evaded an armed assailant. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM on November 4, when a masked individual, reportedly carrying a high-powered weapon, approached the popular establishment with apparent intentions to rob it.
According to initial reports, the gunman was unable to carry out the robbery and left the premises empty-handed. No shots were fired, and there are no reports of injuries to the proprietor or any patrons.
Police are currently conducting an investigation. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has not yet released further details.
This story is developing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
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