Crime/Police
Fourth Person Charged in Cocaine Seizure; Police Continue Active Investigation
In an ongoing investigation into a significant cocaine, firearms, boat, and ammunition seizure last week Wednesday, the police have charged a fourth individual.
Rico Penn, a 34-year-old resident of Fats Hogs Bay, now faces multiple charges including possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, unlawful possession of a controlled drug, keeping an unlicensed firearm, and unlawful possession of ammunition.
Previously, Dion McMaster, 38, and Brady Ghut were also charged with the same four offenses. Additionally, Zuri Reid, 40, and Ruth Gonzalez Tellez, 28, both residents of Belle Vue, were charged with keeping an unlicensed firearm and unlawful possession of ammunition.
While three more individuals were arrested in connection with the case, they have been released pending further investigations.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) expresses its gratitude for the support and cooperation received during this active and dynamic investigation. The commitment of law-abiding community members bolsters the determination of the RVIPF to continue serving and protecting the Virgin Islands.
Undeterred by those attempting to evade detection and prosecution, the RVIPF remains resolute in its efforts to bring offenders to justice. Investigators urge anyone with useful information to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or provide anonymous tips through the Crimestoppers hotline at 8008477.
The investigation continues as officers pursue multiple leads, ensuring that the Virgin Islands remain a safe and secure community.
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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