Local News
Rehabilitation of Historic Old Administration Building on Main Street Underway Following Delays
After initial setbacks due to Tropical Storm Ernesto, rehabilitation of the historic Old Administration Building on Main Street, Tortola, has officially commenced. The first phase of the project will focus on restoring the building’s front-facing façade, which includes replacing structural support members and all metallic features to enhance safety for both pedestrians and motorists.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sharleen DaBreo-Lettsome, MBE, emphasized the importance of the project in preserving the building’s historical value. “The Old Administration Building on Main Street represents a vital period in the history of the Virgin Islands and the Public Serv
ice,” she stated. “We must do whatever is possible to maintain the integrity of these historical structures. The Old Administration Building provided a solid foundation for some of the Public Service’s earliest days, and we must do whatever is necessary to preserve the history that these walls hold.”
Public Estate Manager, Floyd Stoutt, echoed this sentiment, describing the rehabilitation effort as a testament to the Office of the Deputy Governor’s dedication to maintaining government-owned properties, particularly those with historical significance. Stoutt led a walk-through of the building in June with prospective contractors to outline the scope of the work required. Originally completed in 1866, the building has a rich history, having housed various government agencies, including the Chief Minister’s Office, the High Court Registry, and Customs.
The contract for the project was awarded to GND Construction, with the first phase slated for completion by November 2024.
Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution while traveling in the vicinity during the construction period.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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