Crime/Police
High-Speed Maritime Pursuit Shakes Tortola’s West End, Helicopters and Gunfire Reported
The US Coast Guard and local law enforcement agencies are currently engaged in a high-speed chase of a vessel in the waters off Towers, West End area of Tortola. The pursuit, which began shortly after 10:00 pm, August 25, has left residents on edge as helicopters hover overhead and what appears to be gunfire echoes through the night.
Terrified residents have reported sleepless hours, with the sounds of the chase piercing the normally quiet night. The intensity of the situation has raised concerns across the island, with many noting the heavy police presence extending to the Eastern End.
Authorities have yet to release official details regarding the incident. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Knife-Wielding Bandit Strikes Again in Tortola, Targeting Late-Night Workers
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.
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.
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