Crime/Police
BVI Former Premier Andrew A. Fahie Found Guilty, Sentencing Set For April
Former Premier of the British Virgin Islands Andrew A. Fahie has been found guilty in a Miami court of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States and conspiring to launder a significant sum of money, charges which carry sentences ranging from 20 years to life.
After a trial spanning seven days, a diverse jury rendered a guilty verdict against the former politician who also faces potential fines amounting to US$10 million. The jurors deliberated for a mere four hours before arriving at their decision. Fahie, who was previously out on bail, was handcuffed and taken into custody.
His journey from the corridors of power to a courtroom in Miami has been nothing short of extraordinary. Arrested on April 28, 2022 by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, Fahie made international headlines, shocking many supporters in his homeland.
Fahie, whose political career once seemed destined for greater heights, the verdict represents a stunning reversal of fortune.
However, as the trial progressed and evidence was presented, the territory closely followed the prosecution’s case which included extensive incriminating conversations recorded by undercover DEA agents, phone records, and testimony from the prosecution’s key witness, Oleanvine Pickering Maynard, who secured a reduced sentence through a negotiated deal.
Maynard and her son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, found themselves apprehended in the drug sting. The male counterpart also entered into an agreement with federal authorities, resulting in a five-year sentence.
A former mathematics teacher turned lawmaker, he ascended to prominence as the representative for District One in 1999, a position he held steadfastly for 23 years. Throughout his tenure, he wielded significant influence, serving in various ministerial capacities and ultimately assuming leadership of the Virgin Islands Party (VIP).
Fahie led the VIP to a return to power in the 2019 general election, upending the long-standing dominance of the National Democratic Party. His ascent to power was met with both acclaim and scrutiny, reflecting the complex dynamics of Caribbean politics.
Fahie’s once unassailable reputation began to crumble. In November 2022, facing mounting legal pressure and public scrutiny, he resigned from his position as chairman of the VIP and withdrew from the political arena altogether.
Fahie’s sentencing Is scheduled for April 29.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a warning to the public following a wave of blackmail scams targeting residents across the islands. Numerous individuals have reported receiving disturbing text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically in bitcoin, under threat of exposing allegedly compromising photos or sensitive information if they fail to comply.
RVIPF officials are advising residents to avoid responding or engaging with these messages. The police emphasize that scammers often exploit fear to pressure victims into payment, and any interaction can increase one’s vulnerability to further scams. Instead, recipients are encouraged to report these messages to the RVIPF for investigation and support.
“The RVIPF is actively investigating these cases to safeguard our communities,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis. “We urge residents to report any suspicious messages immediately and to avoid any communication with unknown or threatening contacts.”
To help reduce exposure to scams, the RVIPF advises the public to enhance their online privacy settings, particularly on social media, and to limit the sharing of personal information online.
If you receive or wish to report a blackmail attempt, please contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 for assistance and guidance.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is urging residents and business owners in East End, Tortola, to tighten security in light of a recent surge in burglaries plaguing the area. Over the past week, more than seven incidents have been reported, with hotspots including the neighborhoods of Greenland and Long Look.
The RVIPF is responding to this concerning trend by increasing patrols and advising the public to proactively secure their properties. Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the value of functional security systems, particularly CCTV cameras, as both deterrents and critical tools for investigators.
Protective Measures Suggested by RVIPF
To prevent further incidents and aid in investigations, the RVIPF recommends a series of crime prevention strategies:
- Install and Maintain CCTV Systems: Ensure cameras are positioned to cover entry points and remain operational.
- Lock All Entry Points: Secure doors and windows, especially at night or when properties are vacant.
- Utilize Exterior Lighting: Motion-activated lights can deter intruders by increasing visibility.
- Establish Neighborhood Watch Networks: Keep neighbors informed and report any suspicious activity to the RVIPF promptly.
“The safety of our communities is a priority,” said Acting Commissioner Vanterpool. “But we need the public’s partnership to address these crimes effectively. Functional CCTV systems, secure properties, and vigilant reporting can go a long way in deterring criminal activity.”
Additional patrols have been deployed in the Eastern districts, and detectives are actively investigating the recent burglaries. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS).
An attempted armed robbery at Matcha’s Bar and Grill on Fort Hill was thwarted this afternoon when the proprietor successfully evaded an armed assailant. The incident occurred around 4:00 PM on November 4, when a masked individual, reportedly carrying a high-powered weapon, approached the popular establishment with apparent intentions to rob it.
According to initial reports, the gunman was unable to carry out the robbery and left the premises empty-handed. No shots were fired, and there are no reports of injuries to the proprietor or any patrons.
Police are currently conducting an investigation. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has not yet released further details.
This story is developing, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.
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