Crime/Police
National Security Council Reacts to Homicide of Attorney Jamal Smith
The National Security Council (NSC) held a special meeting today to address the recent homicide of attorney Jamal Smith, as reported by the Commissioner of Police.
This unfortunate event marks the Territory’s first homicide for 2024, prompting NSC to reaffirm its zero-tolerance policy towards crime.
In a statement, the NSC expressed shock and dismay at the incident, urging communities across the Territory to assist the police in their investigations. They specifically called upon individuals who had contact with Mr. Smith within the past 24 to 48 hours to come forward with any pertinent information. The NSC emphasized the importance of cooperation and urged citizens to utilize Crime Stoppers and the confidential hotline for reporting.
“NSC continues to deliberate strategically on all options to confront and eradicate the scourge of crime in the Territory,” the statement affirmed.
The NSC also extended condolences to Mr. Smith’s family and pledged to introduce measures and relevant legislation to resolve this and other unsolved crimes.
Acting Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. David D. Archer Jr., echoed these sentiments in a separate statement, expressing his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Mr. Smith. Recognizing Smith’s contributions to the legal community and the Territory at large, Acting Governor Archer pledged his support to the ongoing investigations, stating, “I am appealing to anyone with relevant information to contact the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).”
The NSC, chaired by the Governor and comprising key members including the Premier, the Minister for Communications and Works, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner of Police, plays a pivotal role in addressing internal security matters and significant security developments in the Territory.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
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.
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.
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