Crime/Police
Jay Kendall Appointed Superintendent of Prisons in the Virgin Islands
Mr. Jay Kendall whose career in the criminal justice system spans over seventeen years, has assumed the role of Superintendent of Prisons, effective from October 30.
Mr. Kendall’s most recent assignment was as the Superintendent of Prisons on Saint Helena Island. There, he spearheaded the design and execution of a comprehensive five-year development plan and played a pivotal role in advancing the construction of a new prison facility.
Taking charge as the Superintendent of Prisons, Mr. Kendall will now bear the responsibility of overseeing all aspects of prison operations and ensuring the enforcement of relevant laws and policies at His Majesty’s Prison in Balsum Ghut, Tortola.
Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, the Minister for Health and Social Development, expressed his enthusiasm about Mr. Kendall’s appointment, stating, “I am elated to welcome Mr. Jay Kendall to the post of Superintendent of Prison for the Virgin Islands. Mr. Kendall comes to the Territory with a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am confident he will bring this experience, which will help to support and propel the rehabilitation and security of the prison system of the Virgin Islands.”
Acting Governor, Mr. David Archer Jr., emphasized the significance of Mr. Kendall’s appointment in the ongoing evolution of the crucial branch of the Public Service. He remarked, “Mr. Kendall’s appointment is a step forward as we continue to evolve this vital branch of the Public Service. We have a mandate to ensure that qualified and capable professionals are in place to provide impactful leadership, and I am confident in Mr. Kendall’s ability to do so.”
Mr. Kendall, reflecting on his extensive professional journey, has previously held roles such as the Operational Head of Function at the H.M Prison and Probation Service in the United Kingdom and the OASys Operational Support Manager in the Ministry of Justice.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the Superintendent of Prisons, Mr. Kendall shared his outlook for the role, stating, “Any opportunity to serve the public is one that should not be taken lightly. I am delighted and humbled to serve and provide leadership as the Superintendent of Prisons. I have a strong commitment to the forward advancement of the criminal justice system, which will not waver in this role.”
The Superintendent of Prisons is a key figure responsible for day-to-day leadership and guidance at His Majesty’s Prison in Balsum Ghut, also serving as the Government’s chief advisor on all matters related to prison management and rehabilitation. The commitment of the Government of the Virgin Islands to the development and advancement of the Territory’s criminal justice system remains unwavering.
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The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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