Uncategorized
Former BVI Premier Sentenced to 11 Years for Role in Cocaine-Import Scheme
Former British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie has been sentenced to eleven years in federal prison by U.S. District Court Judge Kathleen Williams.
The disgraced politician, convicted in February on charges of cocaine trafficking and money laundering, was facing a life sentence sought by prosecutors.
His defense had requested a ten-year term, citing his lesser role in the operation.
The sentencing on August 5 was attended by Fahie’s wife, two daughters, and other supporters.
The sentencing on August 5 was attended by Fahie’s wife, two daughters, and other supporters.
Fahie, 53, chose not to address the court, following his lawyers’ advice. Character statements were read on his behalf, including one from his wife describing him as a”dedicated, loving husband and father whose life goal was to enrich the lives of those he served.”
Dr. Peach Brewley praised Fahie as a “fair and honest person” who would not intentionally mislead anyone.
Fahie’s sentence is two years longer than that of his co-defendant, former BVI Ports Authority Director Oleanvine Maynard, who testified against him as part of her plea deal.
Fahie’s sentence is two years longer than that of his co-defendant, former BVI Ports Authority Director Oleanvine Maynard, who testified against him as part of her plea deal.
Maynard’s son, Kadeem Maynard, who also struck a deal, is serving nearly five years in prison.
Oleanvine Maynard’s testimony was key in linking Fahie to the drug trafficking operation, which involved using the BVI as a transit hub for cocaine smuggling into the United States.
The case, led by a sting operation from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), exposed significant corruption within the BVI.
The case, led by a sting operation from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), exposed significant corruption within the BVI.
Fahie’s arrest was a major scandal for the territory, though no additional charges have been brought against other officials.
His political career began in 1999, and he ascended to the role of Premier after guiding the Virgin Islands Party to victory in the 2019 elections.
His political career began in 1999, and he ascended to the role of Premier after guiding the Virgin Islands Party to victory in the 2019 elections.
In November 2023, while on bail with travel restrictions, he announced his retirement from politics. Fahie has since ceased public statements and will now serve his sentence in federal prison.