Crime/Police
Police Officer Paul France Found Dead In Submerged Vehicle
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that Detective Paul France was found dead early this morning in a vehicle submerged in the sea behind the helicopter pad located behind the parking lot a short distance from the Queen Elizabeth Park 11 I in Road Town, Tortola.
France was a British citizen with close to forty years of service in the police forces in the United Kingdom and the British Virgin Islands.
Commissioner of Police Mark Collins, in an October 7 statement, said, “Detective France was a highly regarded member of our organization, and this tragedy profoundly saddens us. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family.”
It was a man who went fishing in the area shortly after 8 am today, October 7, who observed the vehicle in the sea. He relayed what he saw to another person who arrived at the area shortly after. The second individual who, upon suspecting someone was in the vehicle, raised the alarm.
The RVIPF and Fire and Rescue were summoned and with the aid of one of the men, swam out.
“After a period of effort, they noticed an unresponsive male inside the vehicle. The lone male occupant was later recovered from the vehicle and declared deceased.” The RVIPF said.
The white Grand Vitara was subsequently fished from the sea.
Police Commissioner Collins has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Detective France’s family and expressed his gratitude to the members of the public who lent their support during this devastating incident.
The RVIPF is investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of Detective France.
Anyone with relevant information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
Crime/Police
RVIPF Alerts Residents to Surge in Cryptocurrency Blackmail Scams
Crime/Police
Spike in East End Burglaries Prompts RVIPF to Urge Heightened Security
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).
Crime/Police
Attempted Armed Robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill Foiled on Fort Hill
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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