Crime/Police
Burglaries On The Increase In The Territory
Burglaries have been on the rise in the Territory, prompting the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) to issue a warning to residents.
Over the past week, both homes and businesses have fallen victim to break-ins and attempted break-ins, resulting in the loss of cash and valuable items.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector Larocque, head of the Criminal Investigations Department, has recorded three burglaries and four attempted burglaries within the past 48 hours.
Crandall in Road Reef was burglarised around 1 am on October 10. The following day police confirmed a break-in at VI Motors Gas Station in the early hours of the morning.
While most residential burglaries have been unsuccessful attempts, the increasing volume of reports is a cause for concern. Commissioner of Police Mark Collins aims to reassure the public, stating that the RVIPF is committed to investigating and prosecuting the offenders. He urges the public to report any information that can help identify and apprehend these criminals.
In response, the RVIPF is urging residents to take proactive measures to enhance the security of their properties.
To safeguard their homes and businesses, residents are advised to follow these valuable tips:
1. Install CCTV cameras: By installing surveillance cameras in and around their premises, residents can monitor activities and deter potential burglars.
2. Utilize alarm systems and lighting: Utilizing alarm systems and ensuring that the exterior of the property is well-lit can act as deterrents to would-be intruders.
3. Secure doors and windows: It is crucial to securely lock doors and windows, especially when away from the premises, to reduce the risk of unauthorized entry.
4. Regularly inspect and maintain locking mechanisms: Regular inspections and maintenance of window locks ensure that they are fully operational. Any faulty locks should be promptly repaired or replaced.
5. Safeguard valuable possessions: Residents are advised to photograph their valuable possessions in their respective locations within their homes. Creating a detailed inventory list, including serial numbers or specific identifying marks, can aid in identifying stolen items.
6. Establish a neighborhood watch group: Residents can establish neighborhood watch groups through platforms like WhatsApp. By acting as vigilant observers, community members can promptly report suspicious incidents to their fellow neighbors and the police.
Individuals with information regarding any of the recent burglaries can contact the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS) or dial 1-284-800-8477 from overseas. They can also reach out to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339. All information will be treated confidentially. By working together, the community and the police can combat the increase in burglaries and ensure the safety and security of the Territory.
A man believed to be mentally challenged was apprehended yesterday, May 8, for allegedly breaking and entering. While it is unclear whose property was involved or when the incident occurred, a voice in the video of the encounter is heard saying, “You hungry, ask for food, you don’t break into people’s houses.”
JTV understands that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has been made aware of the matter. Further details will be provided as they become available.
A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with a late-night shooting outside a popular nightclub in Free Bottom. Following reports of gunfire in the area on Monday, April 28, 2024, officers arrested Jamari Scatliffe of John’s Hole, who now faces charges of possession of a firearm with intent to put another in fear, unlawful possession of explosives, and attempted robbery.
According to initial reports, officers responded to the scene shortly after 1:45 a.m., where two masked individuals allegedly approached a group near the nightclub, prompting one person to flee inside. The masked assailants then fired several rounds before escaping.
A subsequent search of the area recovered eight spent shell casings, including five .223 caliber and three .40 caliber rounds.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool commended the swift action by officers, stressing the department’s commitment to public safety.
“Gun violence has no place in our community,” Vanterpool said. “The swift action by officers to investigate and bring charges in this matter reflects our continued commitment to ensuring public safety. We thank those who have already come forward and continue to urge anyone with information to do the right thing.”
The RVIPF is encouraging anyone with information related to this or other crimes to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or from overseas at (284) 800-8477.
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Erick Rabsatt, the 24-year-old man wanted in connection with the December 2021 fatal shooting of Jaimez A. Stoutt in the British Virgin Islands, is reportedly in custody in the United States Virgin Islands.
A source close to the matter has confirmed that Rabsatt is currently being held in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and is awaiting processing to be extradited to the British Virgin Islands to face charges in the case. No official statements have yet been released by authorities in either jurisdiction regarding the detention.
Stoutt, 31, was shot and killed inside Crystal’s Nightclub in Free Bottom, Tortola, on December 11, 2021. He was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he later died. The incident occurred in the early morning hours and was followed by a police investigation that identified Rabsatt as the primary suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and authorities launched a manhunt that extended across both the British and United States Virgin Islands.
Stoutt was a former U.S. Army soldier who served in Afghanistan in 2011. After returning to the British Virgin Islands, he worked at CCT Global Communications before founding his own landscaping business, Military Cutz. He was also known for his involvement in local basketball leagues.
Following the incident, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force issued appeals to the public for assistance in locating Rabsatt and circulated his photo throughout the region.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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