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.
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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