Crime/Police
Pastor Calls for Urgent Action After Daughter’s Car Is Shot in Latest Wave of Gun Violence
During the Eighteenth Sitting of the First Session of the Fifth House of Assembly, today, August 22, Pastor Winston Salmon delivered a heartfelt plea for action as the Virgin Islands grapples with a surge in violent crime. Addressing the Assembly, Pastor Salmon, visibly shaken, urged lawmakers to confront the escalating violence, citing a recent shooting incident near his home.
“A bit shaky, but I just want to take one minute to ask the House at this time to look at the crime and violence around us,” Pastor Salmon said. “Just beside my house yesterday, a house was shot up, and my daughter—we could have been caught in that. I ask us to take a look into this crime and violence that’s going on in the country. It’s very, very serious, very, very serious.”
Pastor Salmon’s emotional appeal comes on the heels of two gunfire incidents that have unsettled the community. On 21 August, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) responded to reports of gunfire in the Free Bottom area shortly after 2 p.m. Although the scene was deserted when officers arrived, the discovery of spent shell casings triggered an active investigation. This marked the second shooting in as many days; in the early hours of 20 August, gunshots were reported in the Purcell Estate area. Officers responded shortly after 1 a.m., finding spent shell casings but no individuals at the scene. The area was cordoned off, and an investigation is ongoing.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool addressed the situation, emphasising the seriousness of the incident. “In light of this serious situation, the Police have mobilised the Crisis Intervention Team to provide essential support to the affected residents and the broader community. Furthermore, we have heightened security measures, including the deployment of armed patrols in the area, to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents,” she stated.
The RVIPF is urging anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Individuals can report tips anonymously through the Crime Stoppers line at 800-8477 (TIPS) or, if overseas, at +1-284-800-8477. The RVIPF Intelligence Unit is also available at 368-9339. Police emphasise that no detail is too small, and all information will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
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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