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National Security Council Addresses Recent Shooting Incident
In response to the recent shooting incident that occurred on Friday, March 22, the National Security Council (NSC) chaired by the Governor and comprising key members including the Premier, the Minister for Communication and Works, the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police convened today, March 25, to address the matter and the discuss progress of the ongoing investigation.
During the meeting, the Commissioner of Police provided updates on the condition of the victim, Jeron Romney. Additionally, the Commissioner addressed recent media reports regarding gunshots heard in the area of Huntum’s Ghut on the evenings of March 23rd and 24th, 2024. However, investigations thus far have not confirmed the nature of these incidents.
The NSC committed to remaining informed on these matters and scheduled a follow-up discussion later in the week. Expressing gratitude, the NSC thanked community members who have come forward to assist the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force with the investigation and urged continued support from all communities throughout the Territory.
Specifically, the NSC encouraged anyone who had recent contact with Mr. Romney to reach out to Crime Stoppers and the confidential hotline at 800-8477 [TIPS] and 368-9339. Emphasising the importance of maintaining calm, the NSC called for peace and stability in the Territory.
Furthermore, the NSC reiterated its dedication to implementing measures and relevant legislation to address this and other unresolved crimes. The Council plays a crucial role in addressing internal security matters and significant security developments in the Territory, including instances of significant criminal activity.
As investigations continue and efforts to ensure the safety and security of residents progress, the NSC remains vigilant and committed to upholding the well-being of the British Virgin Islands community.
The National Security Council will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary actions to maintain law and order throughout the Territory.
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Scrub Island Resort Hosts 2024 Billfish Series, Crowns Champions
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Four Men Cleared of Murder Charges in 2020 Killing of Matthew Daly
Four men accused of the 2020 murder of Matthew Daly were acquitted today after Justice Rajiv Persad upheld a No Case submission presented by their defense attorneys. Edward Crooke, Dajshon Benjamin, Micah Ormond, and K’Vawn Choucoutou had been on trial for five weeks for Daly’s killing on September 10, 2020. The trial, which began on September 16, 2024, concluded with the judge directing the jury to return Not Guilty verdicts for all defendants.
Crooke, Ormond, and Choucoutou left the High Court as free men, with no other legal matters pending. However, Benjamin remained in custody due to a separate guilty plea in a case before the Magistrate’s Court, as confirmed by his attorney, Michael Maduro.
The defense team included Attorney-at-Law Stephen Daniels for Crooke, Valston Graham for Choucoutou, and Valarie Stevens-Gordon for Ormond. The jury, consisting of seven women and two men, heard testimony throughout the trial before being instructed by Justice Persad to clear the defendants of the charges.
Before dismissing the men, Justice Persad urged them to contribute positively to society and avoid returning to the courts. “Make this a turning point,” he advised as they were formally released.
However, after the verdict, officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force attempted to serve notices of appeal to the men outside the courthouse. This action was met with strong opposition from the defense attorneys, who argued that the notices were prepared before the judge’s decision was announced. The lawyers advised their clients not to accept the appeal documents, which the men complied with.
Despite the officers’ claims that the documents were timestamped after the judge’s ruling, the defense refused to acknowledge the service, leading to a tense standoff in the courthouse yard.
The case remains in legal limbo as both sides weigh their next steps.
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Quick Action by Firefighters Prevents Major Loss at Tortola Auto Group
A swift response by the Fire and Rescue Services averted what could have been a significant disaster for Tortola Auto Group (TAG) after a fire broke out at one of their storage sites. The blaze, which occurred at the Duff Bottom location behind the Island Department Store, threatened a large number of vehicles but was brought under control before causing widespread damage.
According to reports, the fire started in an area where numerous cars were stored. However, the quick actions of the firefighters, along with TAG staff members, prevented the flames from spreading to the majority of vehicles. Workers were able to relocate most of the cars to safety before the fire could escalate.
A source close to the company stated: “We were able to move most of the cars, thankfully. Yes, we lost a few to the fire, but the vast majority are safe and undamaged.”
While some losses were reported, the combined efforts of the Fire and Rescue Services and TAG’s team ensured that the potential for major damage was minimised. The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and further details are expected as investigations continue.
More information will be provided as it becomes available.
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