Crime/Police
RVIPF Seizes High-Powered Firearms in Major Crime Crackdown
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has recovered three high-powered firearms from two separate incidents this week.
On Monday, June 24, RVIPF officers, acting on specific intelligence, attempted to stop a Kia Soul in the Johnsons Ghut area.
Upon seeing the officers, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers discovered two prohibited firearms: a Micro Draco 7.62 calibre rifle and a 5.56 calibre rifle equipped with a silencer. A substantial amount of ammunition was also recovered. Efforts to identify and locate the driver are ongoing.
Two days later, on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, RVIPF officers conducted a stop-and-check operation in the Huntum’s Ghut area. During the operation, a vehicle search revealed a 0.40 calibre pistol with several .40 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, several items suspected to have been stolen were seized. Three male suspects were arrested and remain in police custody as the investigation proceeds.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Mark Collins, praised the officers for their bravery and unwavering dedication to reducing crime and safeguarding the community. “These recoveries highlight the relentless commitment of our officers to ensure the safety and security of the Virgin Islands. We will continue to act on intelligence and conduct operations to remove illegal firearms from our streets.”
The RVIPF urges anyone with information related to these incidents to contact the Crime Stoppers line confidentially at 800-8477 (TIPS) or, for international calls, 1-284-800-8477. The RVIPF Intelligence Unit can also be reached at 284-368-9339. Even seemingly minor information could prove crucial in solving these crimes and bringing the perpetrators to justice.
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.
Crime/Police
RVIPF Report Multiple Assault Arrests Across the Territory
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.
Crime/Police
Police Ramp Up Arrests for Firearm and Explosives Offenses Across the Territory
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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