Crime/Police
Supplier Accused of Misappropriating Funds for Virgin Islands Icon Awards; Case Referred to Police
A supplier contracted by the Virgin Islands Icon Awards (VIcons) has been accused of unlawfully diverting funds intended for the high-profile event, prompting organizers to involve law enforcement. The alleged misconduct—discovered just days after the annual ceremony celebrating Virgin Islands excellence—has triggered a full investigation by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.
According to a press release issued by event producers, the alleged misappropriation was uncovered during a routine review of deliverables for the awards show, which was held on Sunday, July 6. The supplier in question had been contracted to provide services including the procurement of branded items—such as swag bags, 4-in-1 tumblers, and backpacks—for distribution to VIconic Training Academy students, as well as the shipment of various event-related goods and educational materials.
However, event organizers discovered that the funds allocated for these purposes were not used appropriately. Items that were believed to be destined for the awards, and held in a California warehouse for more than 27 days, were found to have no connection to the (VIcons). Despite this, the supplier reportedly billed the full shipment to VIcons.
The discrepancy was confirmed following direct verification with the shipping company in California. In response, the matter was escalated to local authorities, and legal counsel has been engaged by the VIcons team.
“It is incredibly disappointing to be placed in a position where we must speak publicly about this situation,” said Kareem-Nelson Hull, Executive Producer of the awards. “As a nonprofit organisation, we must take these matters seriously and are committed to pursuing justice and accountability.”
The supplier has since been removed from any further association with the event, and organizers stated they are reviewing and tightening internal controls to prevent future breaches of this nature.
No further public comments will be made by the organization at this time, citing the active police investigation.
The Virgin Islands Icon Awards team expressed gratitude to its sponsors, judges, nominees, winners, and the broader community for their continued support and patience.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
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