Crime/Police
Premier To Hold National Security Meeting With Governor
Premier Hon. Dr Natalio Wheatley has announced his intention to meet with Governor John Rankin to request a National Security Council meeting in light of the unfortunate passing of Police Detective Paul France whose body was pulled from a submerged vehicle near the waterfront of the Queen Elizabeth II Park on Tortola.
During a JTV exclusive interview this afternoon, October 7, the Minister of Finance said he was meeting with Governor Rankin to request a National Security Council meeting to be thoroughly briefed on the investigation.
“I still am yet to receive a proper briefing on it. I will first, and expect to speak to the Governor in a little while and ask for a National Security meeting,” he said.
The interagency meeting aims to provide the Premier with an extensive update on the circumstances surrounding Detective France’s passing, as well as other security matters within the territory.
The sudden loss of Detective France has deeply impacted the entire territory. With almost forty years of dedicated service, Detective France, a British citizen, was highly regarded both locally and in the United Kingdom.
A concerned passerby noticed tracks leading towards the sea and, upon closer inspection, discovered Detective France’s white Kia Soul submerged in the water.
The RVIPF was immediately notified, and the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service also responded to the scene. Sadly, the officer was found unresponsive in the vehicle.
Premier Wheatley and Police Commissioner Mark Collins have extended their heartfelt condolences to Detective France’s family.
Governor John Rankin
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.
A shooting incident in close proximity to the Elmore Stoutt High School in the Long Bush area of Road Town has left one man seriously injured and prompted an immediate lockdown at the school.
According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the injured man was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition remains unknown at this time. Details about the suspected assailant or potential motives are still unclear.
The incident, which took place on Pickering Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. today, November 8, led the school administration to enact the lockdown as a precautionary measure to safeguard students and staff. Shortly afterward, parents received official communication from the school, reassuring them that the lockdown had been lifted and that students were safe.
“We understand that such news can be concerning, but please rest assured that all necessary measures were taken to ensure everyone’s safety,” the school stated. “The school day is continuing as normal, and students are safe and secure.”
Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Parents and guardians with questions are also encouraged to reach out directly to the school for further updates on student safety. Further details will be shared as they become available.
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