Crime/Police
Women in Policing Initiative Launch: RVIPF Pioneers Inclusivity
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) launched the Women in Policing Initiative, signaling a resolute commitment to inclusivity and empowerment within its ranks. The initiative, unveiled on February 15th, 2024, marks a significant milestone not only for the RVIPF but also for the broader Caribbean UK Overseas Territories.
Ms. Maria Stanley, a Project Officer with the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office offered invaluable insights and encouragement to the women present. “This initiative is a testament to the progressive vision of the RVIPF,” Ms. Stanley remarked, emphasising the pivotal role women play in shaping law enforcement.
Governor Daniel Pruce, His Excellency, voiced his unwavering support for the Women in Policing Network initiative, underlining the critical importance of diversity and community engagement in public service. Commissioner of Police, Mark Collins, echoed these sentiments, hailing the initiative as a catalyst for a more inclusive and cohesive police force. “Our strength lies in our diversity,” Commissioner Collins affirmed, highlighting the transformative power of unity among women in law enforcement.
Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool, a trailblazer within the RVIPF, shared her remarkable journey, inspiring her fellow female officers to persevere in the face of adversity. “Challenges are inevitable, but they are not insurmountable,” Deputy Commissioner Vanterpool declared, urging women to seize opportunities and break through barriers.
Inspector Angeline Samuel-Stevens provided a comprehensive overview of the Women in Policing Initiative, outlining ambitious plans to empower women both within the RVIPF and across the British Virgin Islands community. “Our goal is not only to create a more gender-inclusive police force but also to inspire future generations of women leaders,” Inspector Samuel-Stevens affirmed, underscoring the initiative’s long-term impact.
Ms. Patricia Hackett, Gender Affairs Coordinator for the Virgin Islands Government, reflected on the strides made in overcoming historical gender disparities. “We’ve come a long way,” Ms. Hackett remarked, emphasizing the pivotal role of initiatives like Women in Policing in fostering a more equitable society.
The RVIPF’s Women in Policing Initiative stands as a beacon of progress, heralding a new era of gender equality and professional development within law enforcement. As the RVIPF continues to champion diversity and inclusivity, it reaffirms its commitment to serving as a reflection of the community it proudly protects and serves.
A man believed to be mentally challenged was apprehended yesterday, May 8, for allegedly breaking and entering. While it is unclear whose property was involved or when the incident occurred, a voice in the video of the encounter is heard saying, “You hungry, ask for food, you don’t break into people’s houses.”
JTV understands that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has been made aware of the matter. Further details will be provided as they become available.
A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with a late-night shooting outside a popular nightclub in Free Bottom. Following reports of gunfire in the area on Monday, April 28, 2024, officers arrested Jamari Scatliffe of John’s Hole, who now faces charges of possession of a firearm with intent to put another in fear, unlawful possession of explosives, and attempted robbery.
According to initial reports, officers responded to the scene shortly after 1:45 a.m., where two masked individuals allegedly approached a group near the nightclub, prompting one person to flee inside. The masked assailants then fired several rounds before escaping.
A subsequent search of the area recovered eight spent shell casings, including five .223 caliber and three .40 caliber rounds.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool commended the swift action by officers, stressing the department’s commitment to public safety.
“Gun violence has no place in our community,” Vanterpool said. “The swift action by officers to investigate and bring charges in this matter reflects our continued commitment to ensuring public safety. We thank those who have already come forward and continue to urge anyone with information to do the right thing.”
The RVIPF is encouraging anyone with information related to this or other crimes to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or from overseas at (284) 800-8477.
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Erick Rabsatt, the 24-year-old man wanted in connection with the December 2021 fatal shooting of Jaimez A. Stoutt in the British Virgin Islands, is reportedly in custody in the United States Virgin Islands.
A source close to the matter has confirmed that Rabsatt is currently being held in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and is awaiting processing to be extradited to the British Virgin Islands to face charges in the case. No official statements have yet been released by authorities in either jurisdiction regarding the detention.
Stoutt, 31, was shot and killed inside Crystal’s Nightclub in Free Bottom, Tortola, on December 11, 2021. He was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he later died. The incident occurred in the early morning hours and was followed by a police investigation that identified Rabsatt as the primary suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and authorities launched a manhunt that extended across both the British and United States Virgin Islands.
Stoutt was a former U.S. Army soldier who served in Afghanistan in 2011. After returning to the British Virgin Islands, he worked at CCT Global Communications before founding his own landscaping business, Military Cutz. He was also known for his involvement in local basketball leagues.
Following the incident, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force issued appeals to the public for assistance in locating Rabsatt and circulated his photo throughout the region.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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