Crime/Police
National Security Council Confirms No Firearms Found at ESHS, Imitation Firearm Recovered Nearby
The National Security Council (NSC) of the Virgin Islands has expressed its utmost concern for the safety and security of the people following recent incidents involving an attack on an HM Prison van and an event at the Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS).
In an emergency meeting held on Monday, 9th October, 2023, the NSC reviewed the details of both incidents and received updates from the Commissioner of Police.
According to the Commissioner, the prison officer who was injured during the attack is currently in stable condition at the D. Orlando Smith Hospital, with no life-threatening injuries. The investigation into the attack on the prison van is ongoing, and the NSC is closely monitoring the progress.
In response to the incident at the ESHS, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) swiftly responded and made an arrest. The police presence remained on campus throughout the school day. The Ministry of Education confirmed that no firearms or other weapons were found in the possession of the individuals involved or on the school premises. However, an imitation firearm was later recovered away from the school.
The NSC has expressed concern over the circulation of misinformation regarding the events at the school. It acknowledges the community’s anxieties and is determined to support the RVIPF in its efforts. In light of these concerns, the Police Commissioner has ordered increased patrols, and a joint review of security at the ESHS will be conducted by the RVIPF and the Ministry of Education.
To aid the police in their investigations, the NSC encourages the community to provide any tips or information by calling Crime Stoppers and the confidential and untraceable hotline at 800-8477[TIPS], 800-847-8477, and 368-9339.
The NSC assures the public that the RVIPF is utilizing all available resources to bring criminals to justice and address the escalating crime trend. It reiterates its commitment to a zero tolerance policy on crime.
The National Security Council is responsible for matters related to internal security and significant security developments in the Virgin Islands. The council is chaired by the Governor and includes members such as the Premier, the Minister for Communication and Works, the Attorney General (ex-officio), and the Commissioner of Police (ex-officio).
The NSC’s primary focus is the safety and security of the people of the Virgin Islands, and it will continue to work diligently to ensure their well-being.
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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