Crime/Police
One Female Injured In Prison Van Gun Attack, RVIPF Confirmed
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have confirmed that a female prison officer was injured this morning when a prison van came under gunfire in East End, Tortola.
An October 9 RVIPF statement said shots were fired at His Majesty’s Prison van “as they were en route to court earlier this morning. One female has been reported injured and was transported to Dr. Orlando Hospital for treatment. Her condition is unknown at this time.”
The van was transporting prisoners to court through East End at around 9:30 a.m. when it was struck by gunfire near the Police Station.
As a precautionary measure, the hospital is temporarily closed for security reasons.
The shooting incident is being investigated by detectives of the RVIPF.
On October 7, Police Detective Paul France was discovered deceased in a submerged vehicle near the waterfront of the Queen Elizabeth II Park on Tortola.
A concerned passerby noticed tracks leading towards the sea and, upon closer inspection, found the policeman’s white Grand Vitara submerged in the water.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) was immediately notified, and the Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Service also responded to the scene. Tragically, the officer was found unresponsive in the vehicle.
France, a British citizen, was a highly respected officer with nearly forty years of service in the United Kingdom and the British Virgin Islands.
His untimely passing has sent shockwaves throughout the territory.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
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.
Crime/Police
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
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.
Crime/Police
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
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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