Local News
ESHS Enforces Strict Security Measures Amid Safety Concerns

PHOTO: Confiscated items displayed in a slideshow at the recent ESHS PTA meeting, highlighting ongoing security concerns.
– Unconfirmed Reports of Prohibited Items Confiscated
In response to mounting concerns over student safety, Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) conducted a surprise security sweep on campus this morning, February 5, leading to unconfirmed reports of prohibited items being confiscated. The search, which lasted well over an hour, was part of a broader initiative endorsed by the Ministry of Education to curb the presence of drugs, alcohol, weapons, and drug-infused foods within the school.
“The Ministry of Education fully supports the efforts of Elmore Stoutt High School to conduct random searches as part of a broader strategy to address the serious concerns of drugs, drug-infused foods, alcohol, and weapons on campus,” a Ministry spokesperson stated. “These measures align with our zero-tolerance policy and reinforce our unwavering commitment to maintaining a safe and secure learning environment.”
The operation, which reportedly involved armed police officers assisting school officials, drew mixed reactions from parents. While many applauded the school’s firm stance on security, others expressed frustration over the extended process and attempted to take their children home. Additionally, unconfirmed reports suggest that some students attempted to breach security protocols to enter the premises during the search.
“It’s a necessary step,” said one concerned parent who wished to remain anonymous. “We’ve been hearing about these issues for a while now, and I’m glad the school is finally doing something serious about it. But communication with parents could have been better.”
The security sweep comes amid broader challenges faced by the school administration, including low parental engagement. With a student population of just over 1400, fewer than a third of parents actively participate in PTA meetings. The school has also struggled to get parents of at-risk students to engage with teachers despite employing various outreach strategies.
A recent round of one-on-one PTA meetings saw dismal attendance, prompting the administration to issue a follow-up letter urging parents to take advantage of additional opportunities to meet with teachers. The letter, posted on January 28 via the school’s official RAMS Facebook page, emphasised the importance of parental involvement in student success.
In the letter, school officials noted their concern about the low turnout, stating, “Too often, we see parents waiting until the end of the school year when their child is in jeopardy of failure.” They also warned parents that failure to attend the rescheduled meetings would result in their children being unable to return to classes. “Instead, they will be placed in a supervised room where their assignments will be provided, and they will remain there until a parent meets with their teachers,” the letter read.
The school administration also reiterated that parents who cannot attend the scheduled meetings may contact teachers directly to arrange alternative meetings or request phone conferences. “We kindly ask that you make every effort to attend or to contact your child’s teachers,” the letter urged.
Despite the challenges, school officials remain steadfast in their approach. “Tackling these issues will require some unorthodox and potentially inconvenient measures, but the safety of our students and teachers is paramount,” the Ministry’s statement read. “We appreciate the cooperation of parents and the wider community as we take the necessary steps to ensure that our students and staff are in the safe environment they deserve.”
Reports indicate that similar security concerns have been raised at Bregado Flax Educational Centre on Virgin Gorda, suggesting a wider issue affecting multiple institutions in the territory.
Entertainment
Local Farmers to Launch Educational Children’s Books Celebrating Agriculture and Culture in the Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands’ cultural and literary community is poised to welcome the launch of two new educational publications authored by local farmers next week, marking a unique blend of agriculture, culture, and youth education.
The books — Johnny the Great Rooster and Arona’s First Garden Colouring Book — are the work of Jeffrey and Arona Forbes, a husband-and-wife team deeply rooted in the territory’s farming community. The publications aim to instill an appreciation for sustainable farming and traditional knowledge in younger generations.
Johnny the Great Rooster is a narrative children’s book that explores the often-overlooked role of chickens and roosters in sustainable agriculture. Through storytelling, the book underscores their importance in soil health, natural food production, and the preservation of cultural practices tied to rural life.
Meanwhile, Arona’s First Garden Colouring Book takes a more hands-on approach, introducing children to the basics of planting, nurturing, and harvesting. Its interactive format is designed to encourage early interest in gardening and the environment.
“The primary purpose of Johnny is to portray for all readers the important role that the rooster and chickens play in soil preservation, the provision of meat and eggs naturally, and the sustenance of our cultural heritage,” said the authors in a joint statement.
Anne Lennard, Deputy Director of Culture, praised the couple’s contribution, noting their longstanding influence in the agricultural sector. “The Forbeses are planting more than crops,” she said. “They are also planting seeds of knowledge, pride, and sustainability. Their work reflects the heart of our heritage, and these books will be valuable educational tools for generations to come.”
A public launch event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 8 at 5:00 p.m. at Transformation Church International in Road Town. The program will include readings, book signings, and an opportunity to meet the authors.
The event is hosted by the Department of Culture, whose mandate includes preserving and promoting the Virgin Islands’ cultural identity. The department continues to support local artists, educators, and tradition-bearers through initiatives that bridge the past and future.
Crime/Police
Three Years After Fatal Shooting, Suspect Reportedly Apprehended in USVI

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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