Crime/Police
Former BVI Ports Authority Director Oleanvine Maynard Takes Stand Against Ex-Premier Andrew Fahie
– Maynard Spills It All Piecing Together Prosecution’s Case
Oleanvine Maynard former managing director of the BVI Ports Authority, took the stand on Tuesday, February 6, in Miami, testifying against former British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie who faces drug-trafficking conspiracy charges.
Maynard, having pleaded guilty to conspiring with Fahie to import cocaine into the United States, agreed to testify against him in exchange for a potentially lighter sentence.
Her testimony, which stretched over six hours on Tuesday and resumed on Wednesday morning, offered a glimpse into a world of clandestine meetings and coded conversations. Prosecutors played secret recordings as Maynard detailed interactions with Fahie, her son Kadeem Maynard, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) operatives, shedding light on alleged drug trafficking operations.
“On the recording, Maynard was heard explaining to DEA confidential source who used the named “Roberto Quintero” what she hoped to gain from their arrangement. “There are things I want to accomplish. One is to pay off my house in Tortola. And when I retire I want to go to Miami. And in both areas, I want to be rent-free,” she said. Quintero then asked her to open her bag and he gave her $10,000, Ms. Maynard said. “It’s just $10,000: a little present for you,” he was heard to say on the tape. Maynard replied, “Thank you.”
As the prosecution’s fifth and final witness, Maynard’s testimony served to tie together pieces of evidence presented by prior witnesses, including DEA agents and digital forensic analysts. Her guilty plea in June 2023 to conspiracy charges marked a turning point in the trial, offering prosecutors a crucial insider perspective on the alleged conspiracy.
During her testimony, Maynard revealed how she first became entangled in the web of drug trafficking, describing meetings with associates and a DEA confidential source named “Roberto Quintero.” She detailed negotiations with Fahie, including discussions of profit-sharing agreements and a substantial cash “gift” exchanged between Fahie and Quintero.
As Maynard’s testimony continued, the courtroom remained transfixed by the unfolding drama, with Fahie continuing to deny any wrongdoing. Yet, her revelations painted a vivid picture of an alleged conspiracy spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Fahie was 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.
Maynard and her son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, found themselves apprehended in the drug sting. Kadeem also entered into an agreement with federal authorities, resulting in a five-year sentence.
Crime/Police
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
Richard Barronville and Khalid Smith have been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and unlawful possession of explosives following a routine inspection of a vessel in the Frenchman’s Cay area on Thursday by the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Marine Base Joint Task Force.
A statement from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) indicated that the two men—Barronville, 32, of Long Bush, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Smith, 24, from the United States—are expected to appear before the Magistrates’ Court at the next available sitting.
They were arrested on November 14 shortly after 11 a.m. by members of the Joint Task Force, which included officers from the RVIPF and His Majesty’s Customs.
A firearm and ammunition were discovered in the possession of the duo, who were subsequently taken to the Road Town Police Station.
The RVIPF urges anyone with information regarding individuals in possession of illegal firearms to contact Crime Stoppers confidentially at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas at (284) 800-8477, or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
Crime/Police
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking assistance from the public in locating K’Shawn Martin, 18, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent shooting incident. Martin, described as 5’9” with a slim build, dark skin, and black hair, is being linked to the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, on Sand Box Road.
Authorities report that Martin, last known to reside in the Sand Box Road area, may be armed and is considered dangerous. The RVIPF warns the public not to approach Martin if seen and instead urges anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the search for Martin, police are also requesting information regarding the whereabouts of another individual, Shemoi Carey, who is also sought by the RVIPF’s Criminal Investigation Department. Tips can be directed to RVIPF’s CID at 368-5323. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Crime/Police
Shots Fired Near ESHS: Man Injured, High School Goes Into Lockdown
A shooting incident in close proximity to the Elmore Stoutt High School in the Long Bush area of Road Town has left one man seriously injured and prompted an immediate lockdown at the school.
According to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), the injured man was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition remains unknown at this time. Details about the suspected assailant or potential motives are still unclear.
The incident, which took place on Pickering Avenue shortly before 1 p.m. today, November 8, led the school administration to enact the lockdown as a precautionary measure to safeguard students and staff. Shortly afterward, parents received official communication from the school, reassuring them that the lockdown had been lifted and that students were safe.
“We understand that such news can be concerning, but please rest assured that all necessary measures were taken to ensure everyone’s safety,” the school stated. “The school day is continuing as normal, and students are safe and secure.”
Authorities have encouraged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Parents and guardians with questions are also encouraged to reach out directly to the school for further updates on student safety. Further details will be shared as they become available.
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