Crime/Police
Cordell O’Neal Allegedly Takes The Rap For Ammo In Vehicle
Cordell O’Neal, one of three men arrested last week near Sol Gas Station in Tortola, allegedly admitted ownership of the illegal ammunition officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) alleged they found in the vehicle he and the two others were travelling in on September 20.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) on September 25 during a virtual court session told the court that the older O’Neal, of Fresh Water Pond, Tortola, admitted to police officers on September 20 that: “Whatever you found in the bag belongs to me, that’s all I can tell you.” During an interview while in custody.
However, the 38-year-old pleaded not guilty today when the charge was put to him by Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards. He is charged along with his younger brother Kanmi O’Neal, 34, of Pockwood Pond, and Jelani Christopher, 31, of Cane Garden Bay both of whom also pleaded not guilty.
The trio was detained shortly after 8 p.m. on September 20 when police acting on intelligence, stopped and searched their vehicle a short distance from the Road Town Police Station.
A bag containing a loaded magazine with 31 rounds of high-velocity ammunition was found. The men were charged with possession of explosives and remanded to His Majesty’s Prison.
Today, they were granted $20,000 bail each with one signed surety each. They have to report to the Road Town Police Station three days per week and have no contact with witnesses. Their next court date is November 9.
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.
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.
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