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
Crime/Police
Multiple Arrests Made for Offenses Ranging from Criminal Damage to Immigration Violations
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a series of arrests across the territory, highlighting a diverse range of criminal charges as law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal activities.
Tyler Harrigan, 26, of North Sound, Virgin Gorda, was charged with criminal damage, armed with an offensive weapon, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Authorities have not disclosed specific details of the incident leading to the charges.
In a separate case, Kelvin Eleuthere, 27, of Soper’s Hole, West End, was arrested on November 15 and charged with harboring a person, a serious offense under local law.
Also on November 15, Shamar John, 47, was charged for overstaying his landing permit, a violation of immigration regulations.
Meanwhile, on November 11, Kelliel Mala, 26, of the US Virgin Islands, was charged with disorderly conduct following an altercation.
Additionally, a 12-year-old minor was charged with indecent language on November 22.
Each of the accused individuals is scheduled to face court proceedings in the coming months.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with various assault incidents, including attacks on civilians and law enforcement officers.
On November 1, Julian Peters of Free Bottom was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was granted bail of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17. Later in the month, on November 29, police arrested Tresley Chewitt, 41, of Windy Hill, Virgin Gorda, for a separate assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Chewitt was granted bail of $10,000 and will appear in court on January 20, 2025.
In incidents involving law enforcement, Ernest Williams, 31, of Virgin Gorda, and Shem Letteen, 53, of East End, were both arrested on November 23 for assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Both men were granted bail of $3,000 and are expected to appear in court on January 16, 2025.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to cooperate with investigations and report any incidents of violence or threats to public safety.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with firearm and explosives offenses in a series of incidents spanning November.
On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.
The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.
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