Crime/Police
Governor Announces Investigation into Police Commissioner Amidst Mounting Allegations
Governor John J. Rankin, in his final press conference before leaving the territory, confirmed that Police Commissioner Mark Collins is under investigation for possible corruption.
Taking a stance in line with UK and international best practices, Governor Rankin revealed that a senior police officer from another overseas territory within the region has been enlisted to conduct an independent review of the complaints against Commissioner Collins. The governor emphasized his commitment to transparency, stating that the findings and recommendations of the review would be made public once completed.
“I take all complaints seriously, and I’ve taken action in this matter. The independent review is crucial to ensure a fair and impartial investigation,” Governor Rankin stated, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
The recent revelation follows a private petition signed by dozens of concerned officers within the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), urging the dismissal of Commissioner Collins. The petition, submitted to Governor Rankin, outlines 55 allegations against the Commissioner, ranging from misconduct to abuse of power.
The central accusation revolves around an email sent on October 5, 2021, where Commissioner Collins allegedly instructed his executive team to destroy evidence related to an ongoing case. Despite his denial and labelling it an “internal matter,” the petition contends that such actions amount to a willful abuse of power and interference with the administration of justice.
The petition contends that he has manipulated promotion procedures, wielded undue influence over the Police Service Commission, and cultivated an atmosphere of deceit within the force.
Governor Rankin, responding to accusations of bias during the press conference, stated, “I’ve already reviewed the complaints in this matter, and several other matters. I await the outcome of the review, and I shall receive it without fear or favour.”
In a separate development, a concerned citizen has written to Governor Rankin, advocating for the removal of Commissioner Collins to facilitate an impartial and independent investigation into serious allegations, including evidence tampering within the RVIPF. The citizen’s letter, dated November 2, emphasizes the need for a fair and transparent investigation, independent of Commissioner Collins and other high-ranking officers mentioned in the allegations.
Commissioner Collins, present at a press conference on October 12, 2023, initiated by Governor Rankin and Premier Dr Natalio D. Wheatley, described the situation as “an internal matter.” He clarified that the issue involved a conflict between two officers and a leaked email related to their dispute, asserting he had “nothing to hide.”
The unfolding investigation promises to cast a spotlight on the RVIPF’s leadership, with the public eagerly awaiting the results of the independent review ordered by Governor Rankin.
Crime/Police
Multiple Arrests Made for Offenses Ranging from Criminal Damage to Immigration Violations
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a series of arrests across the territory, highlighting a diverse range of criminal charges as law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal activities.
Tyler Harrigan, 26, of North Sound, Virgin Gorda, was charged with criminal damage, armed with an offensive weapon, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Authorities have not disclosed specific details of the incident leading to the charges.
In a separate case, Kelvin Eleuthere, 27, of Soper’s Hole, West End, was arrested on November 15 and charged with harboring a person, a serious offense under local law.
Also on November 15, Shamar John, 47, was charged for overstaying his landing permit, a violation of immigration regulations.
Meanwhile, on November 11, Kelliel Mala, 26, of the US Virgin Islands, was charged with disorderly conduct following an altercation.
Additionally, a 12-year-old minor was charged with indecent language on November 22.
Each of the accused individuals is scheduled to face court proceedings in the coming months.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with various assault incidents, including attacks on civilians and law enforcement officers.
On November 1, Julian Peters of Free Bottom was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was granted bail of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17. Later in the month, on November 29, police arrested Tresley Chewitt, 41, of Windy Hill, Virgin Gorda, for a separate assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Chewitt was granted bail of $10,000 and will appear in court on January 20, 2025.
In incidents involving law enforcement, Ernest Williams, 31, of Virgin Gorda, and Shem Letteen, 53, of East End, were both arrested on November 23 for assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Both men were granted bail of $3,000 and are expected to appear in court on January 16, 2025.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to cooperate with investigations and report any incidents of violence or threats to public safety.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with firearm and explosives offenses in a series of incidents spanning November.
On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.
The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.
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