Crime/Police
RVIPF Urges Vigilance as Burglaries Surge in the British Virgin Islands
The RVIPF would like to emphasise its ongoing concern regarding the increase in occurrences of both commercial and residential burglaries where the perpetrators frequently make off with a range of electronic devices, including laptop computers, mobile phones, and gaming consoles.
We urge the public to remain vigilant for individuals selling these items, especially if the prices are significantly lower than the market value. The RVIPF also urges individuals to promptly report any such incidents to the police if there is reason to believe that the items were stolen or acquired unlawfully.
Head of the Criminal Investigation Department, Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis stated: “It is far better to prevent burglaries than to investigate them after they have occurred. A person’s home should be their safe space and once it is violated by trespassers, it is not the same place anymore”.
- The RVIPF is conducting focused patrols as a preventive measure while investigations remain ongoing in reported burglary cases. As such, DCI Davis would like to reiterate the following self-help options to individuals, families and businesses:
- Install CCTV cameras in and around your premises to monitor activities and deter potential burglars.
- Utilize alarm systems and ensure that the exterior of your property is well-lit. Adequate lighting can act as a deterrent to would-be intruders. Motion lights are a good option.
- Securely lock your doors and windows, especially when away from your premises. This basic measure can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized entry.
- Regularly inspect and maintain the locking mechanisms on all windows, ensuring that they are fully operational. Any faulty locks should be promptly repaired or replaced.
- Do not leave a spare key outside. A large percentage of burglaries happen without forced entry.
- Safeguard your valuable possessions by photographing them in their respective locations within your home. Create a detailed inventory list for each item, and record serial numbers or specific identifying marks to make it easier to identify them in case of theft.
- Establish a neighbourhood watch group that can be conveniently organised through a WhatsApp platform. In this setup, residents within a specific neighbourhood can serve as vigilant observers, promptly reporting any suspicious incidents they come across to their fellow community members and the police. The RVIPF stands ready to provide advice and support to any community wishing to start these groups.
Persons who can assist police with information into any burglary can confidentially call the Crime Stoppers line 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas call 1-284-800-8477 with the relevant information or contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
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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