Crime/Police
Guilty Verdict Stands in Andrew Fahie’s Trial
A Miami federal judge upheld the jury’s unanimous guilty verdicts, leaving former British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie vulnerable to a potential sentence of 10 years to life in prison on the primary charge of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States through the British territory.
Fahie, 53, was also found guilty of three additional charges related to money laundering and racketeering. His sentencing is scheduled for April 29.
The controversy arose when two jurors contacted the judge’s office shortly after the guilty verdict, expressing second thoughts about their decision. Despite arguments from both federal prosecutors and defense attorneys, Judge Williams ultimately upheld the unanimous verdicts, citing legal precedent.
Of particular concern to the judge was the interaction between one juror and Fahie’s defense attorney, raising questions about potential outside influence on the jury’s deliberations. This conversation, along with other attempts at contact from the same juror, became part of the post-verdict dispute.
Fahie’s arrest in April 2022 following a DEA sting operation marked the beginning of a legal saga that culminated in his conviction.
Prosecutors portrayed Fahie as a corrupt official who conspired to allow cocaine to pass through the British Virgin Islands in exchange for bribes, while Fahie’s defense argued he was framed by the United Kingdom.
Despite Fahie’s defense, evidence presented during the trial implicated him in the drug trafficking scheme orchestrated by the DEA informant posing as a member of the Sinaloa cartel. Fahie’s sentencing will bring an end to a tumultuous chapter in the political landscape of the British Virgin Islands.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications of Fahie’s conviction reverberate through the Caribbean, underscoring the far-reaching consequences of corruption and drug trafficking in the region.
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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