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Local News

Former USVI Senator Alicia “Chucky” Hansen Remembered for Distinguished Career: Acting Premier Pays Tribute

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The passing of former USVI Senator Alicia “Chucky” Hansen has left the Virgin Islands community saddened. Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, the Acting Premier, expressed her condolences and paid tribute to Senator Hansen in a heartfelt statement.

“I was saddened to learn that former USVI Senator Alicia ‘Chucky’ Hansen passed away yesterday afternoon after a period of illness,” said Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE.

Senator Hansen’s political career was marked by distinction, having entered the political arena in 1986 and serving for an impressive 11 terms as Senator in the District of St. Croix. She earned the record for garnering the most votes in a senatorial election in the district, a testament to her popularity and dedication to public service.

Despite her political achievements, Senator Hansen never forgot her roots in Long Look, Tortola, and maintained close ties to the Territory. She actively participated in the Inter Virgin Islands Council, USVI/BVI Friendship Day celebrations, and other events, demonstrating her commitment to fostering a strong relationship between the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands.

Throughout her illustrious career, Senator Hansen was a dedicated champion of human rights, displaying unwavering commitment until her final days. Her distinct voice and passion resonated with those she served.

“Over the course of her remarkable political career, Senator Hansen exemplified qualities of courage, professionalism, and compassion. Her contributions as a servant of the people were truly exceptional, and her passing represents a significant loss not only for the residents of the United States Virgin Islands but for the Greater Virgin Islands,” remarked Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE.

Beyond her political endeavors, Senator Hansen was highly regarded as a radio personality, hosting her own show called “Keeping in Touch.” Through this platform, she engaged in discussions spanning politics, interpersonal relationships, and domestic concerns, further showcasing her dedication to public discourse and community engagement.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Lorna Smith, OBE, extended her deepest condolences to Senator Hansen’s family, particularly her sister, Ms. Agnes Pickering, and the extended Malone, George, and Pickering families. She offered prayers for comfort during this time of mourning, recognizing Senator Hansen as an illustrious daughter of the soil who will be sorely missed.

The passing of Senator Alicia “Chucky” Hansen leaves a void in the political landscape, but her legacy as a dedicated public servant and passionate advocate for human rights will continue to inspire future generations. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Education

VI Celebrates Inclusion at Down Syndrome Awareness Event

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The Virgin Islands reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity and support for individuals with Down syndrome as the Social Development Department, through the Disability Services Division, hosted a Down Syndrome Awareness Motorcade, Sports, and Games Day last week.

Held at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park, the event, themed “Improve Our Support Systems,” brought together families, caregivers, advocates, and community members in a day of celebration and awareness. Participants engaged in interactive games, sporting activities, and discussions aimed at highlighting the importance of strong support networks for individuals with Down syndrome.

The motorcade, a key feature of the event, traveled through Road Town, drawing attention to the cause and encouraging greater societal engagement in disability advocacy. Attendees, including government officials and representatives from various community organizations, echoed the call for continued improvements in support services, accessibility, and awareness initiatives.

Parents and caregivers also took the opportunity to share personal experiences, highlighting both progress and ongoing challenges in securing resources and services for individuals with Down syndrome in the territory.

The Social Development Department expressed gratitude for the community’s participation and reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening support systems for individuals with disabilities through continued advocacy and policy development.

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Crime/Police

BVI Police Make Strides in Robbery and Property Crime Investigations

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A crackdown on violent crime in the British Virgin Islands has led to multiple arrests and the seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition, authorities announced Friday, March 28.

In a series of targeted search operations, police recovered a semi-automatic handgun and dozens of rounds of ammunition, marking a significant step in the fight against armed robberies and property crimes across the territory.

As part of the ongoing investigations, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) conducted a series of search operations on March 25 at five properties linked to suspects in recent armed robberies. Officers recovered a 9mm Glock semi-automatic pistol and 41 rounds of assorted ammunition.

Authorities detained eight individuals in connection with the raids. Three were released after questioning, while five have been formally charged.

Ernest Jacobs, 59, Prynce Jacobs, 19, and a 16-year-old male, all of Josiah’s Bay, have been charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and two counts of unlawful possession of explosives. A 14-year-old male of Purcell Estate has been charged with two counts of robbery. Ravie Joseph, 43, of Josiah’s Bay, has been charged with overstaying a landing permit.

The charges stem from separate robbery incidents on Tortola on March 3. Police had previously charged and remanded another minor in connection with the same crimes.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool lauded officers for their work and underscored the importance of removing illegal weapons from the streets.

“The removal of illegal firearms and ammunition from our communities is a critical step in reducing the threat of violence and protecting innocent lives,” Vanterpool said in a statement. “To date, a total of nine illegal firearms and more than 300 rounds of ammunition have been recovered as part of our intensified operations. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt criminal networks and bring offenders to justice.”

Authorities continue to urge residents to come forward with any information that may aid ongoing investigations. Tips can be submitted to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477, or internationally at (284) 800-8477.

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Local News

U.S. Six-Month Passport Validity Rule Enforced for British Virgin Islands Travelers

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Travelers from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are being urged to check their passport validity before visiting the United States, as officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands have begun enforcing the six-month passport validity rule for entry into U.S. territories and the mainland.

According to a recent bulletin issued by the Office of the Deputy Governor in the BVI, the Civil Registry and Passport Office is advising citizens to renew their passports well in advance to avoid disruptions to travel plans.

“The United States Virgin Islands is enforcing the six-month passport validity requirement for entry to U.S. Territories and mainland,” the bulletin stated. “As such, all citizens are encouraged to renew their passports well in advance to avoid any inconvenience.”

The advisory also reminded British Overseas Territories Citizens (BOTC) and British passport holders that they are eligible to renew their passports up to nine months before their expiration date. This early renewal process is designed to prevent last-minute complications and ensure uninterrupted travel.

Authorities strongly recommend that all travelers verify their passport validity before making travel arrangements. The Civil Registry and Passport Office remains available for assistance and inquiries regarding renewal procedures.

For further information, BVI residents are encouraged to contact the Civil Registry and Passport Office at 468-3035.

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