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.
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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