Crime/Police
One Arrested as Police Seize Drugs and Weapon in Major Crackdown on Tortola Violence
In response to a series of violent incidents across Tortola, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) launched a sweeping operation on Friday, August 23, aimed at curbing public disorder and restoring a sense of security to the island’s residents.
The operation, described as intelligence-led, involved a coordinated effort of targeted stop-and-search checks, increased patrols, and strategic searches across various hotspots on the island.
The initiative resulted in the seizure of a significant quantity of controlled drugs, drug-dealing paraphernalia, and an offensive weapon. One adult male was arrested in connection with the seized items, and investigations are ongoing into other materials recovered during the operation.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool highlighted the importance of the operation in addressing the community’s growing concerns. “The recent incidents of indiscriminate gunfire and other forms of public disorder have understandably alarmed our residents,” said Vanterpool. “This operation was crucial not only in terms of enforcement but also in reassuring the public that we are committed to restoring and maintaining peace in our communities.”
Vanterpool further emphasised the RVIPF’s commitment to cracking down on criminal activities, noting, “The police are dedicated to investigating and apprehending those who continue to disregard the law and disrupt the safety of our communities.”
In her statement, the Acting Commissioner also called on the public to support law enforcement efforts by providing any information that could assist in tackling criminal activities. “We urge anyone with information to come forward. Your cooperation is vital to our continued success in these operations,” Vanterpool added.
The RVIPF has provided multiple avenues for confidential reporting, including the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 800-8477 (TIPS) and the RVIPF Intelligence Department at 284-368-9339, ensuring that all information will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
A bandit is said to be on the loose in Tortola, targeting women who work late at night.
Information reaching JTV indicates that the most recent attack occurred on December 30, shortly after 1:00 a.m., when a woman returning to her Greenland home was ambushed on her staircase. The assailant, armed with a knife, demanded her belongings, and a struggle ensued.
The victim sustained minor injuries before the attacker fled the scene with her handbag, which contained electronic devices and personal items.
This incident marks the second such attack in less than three weeks, prompting an investigation by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
The RVIPF is encouraging anyone with information related to these crimes to contact their hotline at 311 or report anonymously through the Crime Stoppers program.
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.
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