Local News
Agriculture and Fisheries Month to Focus on Innovation and Sustainability

Agriculture and Fisheries Month will be observed this year from March 8 to 29, with a series of activities designed to highlight the ingenuity and resilience of local sectors.
The month-long celebration will include exhibitions, markets, and a panel discussion focused on food security, sustainability, and technological advancements in agriculture and fisheries.
The events aim to provide a platform for local farmers, fishermen, and experts to share their knowledge, showcase their products, and discuss strategies for building a more sustainable future.
Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Dr. Karl Dawson, stressed the importance of the month in recognising the work of local farmers, fishers, and communities. He noted that the Territory faces challenges due to limited land and a vast ocean, and stressed the need for innovative, sustainable practices.
“As we face the challenges of limited land and vast ocean, we must continue to embrace innovative, sustainable practices,” Dr. Dawson said. “Despite the limited land space, we are working to make more land available for farming, given the vital role agriculture plays in our economy.”
Dr. Dawson also mentioned that the Department of Agriculture will support training initiatives focused on food production methods that are productive but require minimal land use.
Theodore James, Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, explained that this year’s theme, “Limited Land, Vast Ocean: Reimagining Food Production Through Ingenuity,” invites the community to explore new and sustainable approaches to food production.
“This theme highlights how the Territory adapts to the challenges of limited land and an expansive ocean,” Mr. James said. “By reimagining food production and embracing new approaches, we can create sustainable systems that preserve our natural resources, ensuring long-term food security and economic growth for the Virgin Islands.”
The month’s activities will kick off with an exhibition and market in Tortola at Paraquita Bay on March 8 and 9, aimed at engaging the public in discussions about sustainable food practices. Other events include the AgriFish Dialogue and a panel discussion addressing innovative solutions and emerging trends in the agriculture and fisheries sectors.
Exhibitions will also take place on Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke, providing local farmers, fishers, and other stakeholders an opportunity to connect with consumers, showcase their work, and demonstrate how ingenuity is shaping the future of food production in the Virgin Islands.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries remains committed to promoting sustainable practices throughout the Territory, fostering a brighter future for both agriculture and fisheries.
Crime/Police
Jamari Scatliffe Charged in Free Bottom Nightclub Shooting

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 Sunday, 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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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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