Crime/Police
De Castro Supports Enhanced Policing with Caution Against Unchecked Powers
While supporting aspects of the Police Amendment Bill 2024 that aim to enhance law enforcement capabilities, Hon. Sharie B. de Castro cautioned against provisions that could grant unchecked powers to the police. Her remarks came during the continuation of the First Sitting of the Second Session of the Fifth House of Assembly on January 8, as she called for reforms that balance stronger law enforcement with safeguarding human rights and addressing the root causes of crime.
“The police must walk with integrity. They cannot uphold the law while simultaneously disregarding it themselves. Everyone must play by the rules,” de Castro asserted, emphasizing the importance of accountability and trust in the justice system.
De Castro voiced concern about the erosion of public trust in law enforcement and its effect on community engagement. “How many in our community trust the system of policing?” she questioned. “How many see themselves becoming a part of that system or pursuing careers in law enforcement, the DPP’s office, or defense? The reality is, not many. That is a problem we must address.”
She advocated for reforms that empower law enforcement while ensuring officers operate within clear ethical boundaries and remain accountable for their actions.
De Castro urged her colleagues to closely scrutinize sections of the bill that might infringe upon fundamental rights. She stressed that public safety legislation must include safeguards to prevent abuse of power.
“We must ensure this legislation does not give individuals immunity to act without accountability. Such provisions would undermine public trust in the very system we are trying to strengthen,” she argued.
Connecting public safety with social development, de Castro highlighted the need for greater investment in infrastructure, education, and youth programs. She emphasized that sustainable reform requires a holistic approach that addresses the underlying causes of crime and provides young people with opportunities to thrive.
“Our schools must be environments that reinforce discipline and provide opportunities, not breeding grounds for negative influences,” she said, citing her ministry’s zero-tolerance approach to serious misbehavior as part of a broader effort to guide youth toward positive alternatives.
As the bill advanced to the Committee stage, de Castro expressed confidence in the ability of her fellow legislators to refine it. She urged collaboration to ensure the legislation achieves its objectives without compromising public trust or human rights.
“This bill is a step forward, but it must be one that balances the needs of law enforcement with the rights and trust of the people we serve,” de Castro concluded, reiterating her vision for a safer and more equitable territory.
A man believed to be mentally challenged was apprehended earlier today for allegedly breaking and entering. While it is unclear whose property was involved or when the incident occurred, a voice in the video of the encounter is heard saying, “You hungry, ask for food, you don’t break into people’s houses.”
JTV understands that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has been made aware of the matter. Further details will be provided as they become available.
A 22-year-old man has been charged in connection with a late-night shooting outside a popular nightclub in Free Bottom. Following reports of gunfire in the area on Monday, April 28, 2024, officers arrested Jamari Scatliffe of John’s Hole, who now faces charges of possession of a firearm with intent to put another in fear, unlawful possession of explosives, and attempted robbery.
According to initial reports, officers responded to the scene shortly after 1:45 a.m., where two masked individuals allegedly approached a group near the nightclub, prompting one person to flee inside. The masked assailants then fired several rounds before escaping.
A subsequent search of the area recovered eight spent shell casings, including five .223 caliber and three .40 caliber rounds.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool commended the swift action by officers, stressing the department’s commitment to public safety.
“Gun violence has no place in our community,” Vanterpool said. “The swift action by officers to investigate and bring charges in this matter reflects our continued commitment to ensuring public safety. We thank those who have already come forward and continue to urge anyone with information to do the right thing.”
The RVIPF is encouraging anyone with information related to this or other crimes to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or from overseas at (284) 800-8477.
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Erick Rabsatt, the 24-year-old man wanted in connection with the December 2021 fatal shooting of Jaimez A. Stoutt in the British Virgin Islands, is reportedly in custody in the United States Virgin Islands.
A source close to the matter has confirmed that Rabsatt is currently being held in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, and is awaiting processing to be extradited to the British Virgin Islands to face charges in the case. No official statements have yet been released by authorities in either jurisdiction regarding the detention.
Stoutt, 31, was shot and killed inside Crystal’s Nightclub in Free Bottom, Tortola, on December 11, 2021. He was transported to Dr. D. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he later died. The incident occurred in the early morning hours and was followed by a police investigation that identified Rabsatt as the primary suspect. An arrest warrant was issued, and authorities launched a manhunt that extended across both the British and United States Virgin Islands.
Stoutt was a former U.S. Army soldier who served in Afghanistan in 2011. After returning to the British Virgin Islands, he worked at CCT Global Communications before founding his own landscaping business, Military Cutz. He was also known for his involvement in local basketball leagues.
Following the incident, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force issued appeals to the public for assistance in locating Rabsatt and circulated his photo throughout the region.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
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