Governor Orders Deportation of Isabella Merton Following 2020 Assault Conviction

Isabella Merton, a woman convicted in 2020 of grievous bodily harm, has been ordered deported from the British Virgin Islands by Governor Daniel Pruce. The deportation order, signed on February 21, directs Merton to leave the territory within seven days of receiving official notice.

Merton, who lived in Josiah’s Bay at the time of her arrest, was found guilty of striking a man with her vehicle, resulting in a broken ankle.
According to court records, the incident stemmed from a dispute involving Merton’s boyfriend. On the day in question, the victim had been involved in an altercation with Merton’s partner. Later, as he walked through an area in Greenland, Tortola, Merton allegedly drove toward him at high speed.

The victim attempted to evade the vehicle but was struck on his right side. The Jeep reportedly turned and drove toward him again, prompting him to jump into a nearby ghut to avoid further injury.

While in the ghut, the victim claimed Merton pointed a firearm at him and threatened his life. Another man reportedly intervened and pulled her away.

Merton was also charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life; however, the court dismissed that charge due to insufficient evidence.

In his official order, Governor Pruce stated that Merton is not deemed to belong to the Virgin Islands and that her presence in the territory is “undesirable and not conducive to the public good.” The order was issued under section 40(1)(b) of the Immigration and Passport Act (Revised Edition 2013).

Merton is required to leave the territory within seven days of receiving the order. If she does not voluntarily depart, authorities are authorized to place her on the first available departing vessel or aircraft. She may also be detained until her removal unless she files a written appeal with the governor within the specified timeframe.

At this time, it remains unclear where Merton is originally from.