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.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Crime/Police
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
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.
Crime/Police
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
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.
-
Crime/Police6 days ago
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Crime/Police2 weeks ago
Shots Fired Near ESHS: Man Injured, High School Goes Into Lockdown
-
Local News6 days ago
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police1 week ago
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Local News2 days ago
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Entertainment2 weeks ago
Tortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Local News1 week ago
BVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal