Crime/Police

Police Officer Charged Over Internal Security Breach

Published

6 minutes ago

January 8, 2025

Editor

A Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) officer has been charged following an internal investigation into a significant security breach that compromised a planned police operation in November 2024.

The investigation culminated in the arrest of Police Constable Earlando Baynes, who has been charged with Breach of Trust by a Public Officer. Baynes is set to appear before the Magistrates’ Court in the coming days to face the charges.

The breach, involving the unauthorised disclosure of sensitive information, jeopardised the success of the operation and raised serious concerns about the integrity of law enforcement protocols. In response, the RVIPF launched a comprehensive inquiry led by a specialist internal team to establish the source and extent of the compromise.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool reaffirmed the RVIPF’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “The RVIPF remains resolute in upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency,” Vanterpool stated. “We are determined to eradicate corruption within our ranks and ensure the public’s trust in our law enforcement capabilities.”

The RVIPF has assured the public that it will continue to act decisively against breaches of trust, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the force’s integrity and ensuring the safety of the community.

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Virgin Gorda Police Apprehend Fugitive Linked to String of Burglaries and Robberies

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Crime/Police

Virgin Gorda Police Apprehend Fugitive Linked to String of Burglaries and Robberies

Published

28 minutes ago

January 8, 2025

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed the apprehension of Paul Jack, a national of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, during a coordinated operation conducted by Virgin Gorda detectives on Saturday, January 4.

Jack, who was convicted and deported from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) in 2021 for Proceeds of Criminal Conduct, had re-entered the territory illegally. He had been evading authorities for nearly a year, taking refuge in dense, bushy areas between Crooks Bay and Copper Mine. During this period, Jack was linked to numerous burglaries, robberies, and other criminal activities that disrupted the peace in Virgin Gorda, causing widespread fear in the community.

He now faces a series of charges, including Illegal Entry, Criminal Trespass, Armed with an Offensive Weapon, Assault on Police, Resisting Arrest, and Aggravated Burglary. Investigations into his involvement in additional criminal activities are ongoing.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool praised the dedication and collaboration of the officers involved in the operation. “The arrest of Paul Jack marks a significant step forward in enhancing the safety and security of Virgin Gorda residents and visitors,” she said. “His actions have caused considerable distress, and we are committed to holding him and others accountable for their crimes. The RVIPF remains steadfast in our mission to make the British Virgin Islands a safer environment for all.”

Jack, along with another suspect, 29-year-old Devonte Joseph, has been implicated in a series of break-ins targeting both vacant and occupied villas across Virgin Gorda. The incidents have raised alarm within the local community. Joseph faces charges including Robbery, two counts of Burglary, and Aggravated Burglary.

The RVIPF also expressed appreciation for the continued support from the public in tackling crime in the territory. Residents are urged to stay alert, secure their properties, and report any suspicious activities to the police to assist in ongoing efforts to maintain safety.

Crime/Police

Knife-Wielding Bandit Strikes Again in Tortola, Targeting Late-Night Workers

Published

1 week ago

December 31, 2024

Editor

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

Published

4 weeks ago

December 13, 2024

Editor

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.