Crime/Police
Former BVI Ports Authority Director Oleanvine Maynard Takes Stand Against Ex-Premier Andrew Fahie
– Maynard Spills It All Piecing Together Prosecution’s Case
Oleanvine Maynard former managing director of the BVI Ports Authority, took the stand on Tuesday, February 6, in Miami, testifying against former British Virgin Islands Premier Andrew Fahie who faces drug-trafficking conspiracy charges.
Maynard, having pleaded guilty to conspiring with Fahie to import cocaine into the United States, agreed to testify against him in exchange for a potentially lighter sentence.
Her testimony, which stretched over six hours on Tuesday and resumed on Wednesday morning, offered a glimpse into a world of clandestine meetings and coded conversations. Prosecutors played secret recordings as Maynard detailed interactions with Fahie, her son Kadeem Maynard, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) operatives, shedding light on alleged drug trafficking operations.
“On the recording, Maynard was heard explaining to DEA confidential source who used the named “Roberto Quintero” what she hoped to gain from their arrangement. “There are things I want to accomplish. One is to pay off my house in Tortola. And when I retire I want to go to Miami. And in both areas, I want to be rent-free,” she said. Quintero then asked her to open her bag and he gave her $10,000, Ms. Maynard said. “It’s just $10,000: a little present for you,” he was heard to say on the tape. Maynard replied, “Thank you.”
As the prosecution’s fifth and final witness, Maynard’s testimony served to tie together pieces of evidence presented by prior witnesses, including DEA agents and digital forensic analysts. Her guilty plea in June 2023 to conspiracy charges marked a turning point in the trial, offering prosecutors a crucial insider perspective on the alleged conspiracy.
During her testimony, Maynard revealed how she first became entangled in the web of drug trafficking, describing meetings with associates and a DEA confidential source named “Roberto Quintero.” She detailed negotiations with Fahie, including discussions of profit-sharing agreements and a substantial cash “gift” exchanged between Fahie and Quintero.
As Maynard’s testimony continued, the courtroom remained transfixed by the unfolding drama, with Fahie continuing to deny any wrongdoing. Yet, her revelations painted a vivid picture of an alleged conspiracy spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Fahie was arrested on April 28, 2022 by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) at Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport, Fahie made international headlines, shocking many supporters in his homeland.
Maynard and her son, Kadeem Stephan Maynard, found themselves apprehended in the drug sting. Kadeem also entered into an agreement with federal authorities, resulting in a five-year sentence.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Richard Barronville and Khalid Smith have been charged with possession of a prohibited weapon and unlawful possession of explosives following a routine inspection of a vessel in the Frenchman’s Cay area on Thursday by the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Marine Base Joint Task Force.
A statement from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) indicated that the two men—Barronville, 32, of Long Bush, Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and Smith, 24, from the United States—are expected to appear before the Magistrates’ Court at the next available sitting.
They were arrested on November 14 shortly after 11 a.m. by members of the Joint Task Force, which included officers from the RVIPF and His Majesty’s Customs.
A firearm and ammunition were discovered in the possession of the duo, who were subsequently taken to the Road Town Police Station.
The RVIPF urges anyone with information regarding individuals in possession of illegal firearms to contact Crime Stoppers confidentially at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas at (284) 800-8477, or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking assistance from the public in locating K’Shawn Martin, 18, who is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent shooting incident. Martin, described as 5’9” with a slim build, dark skin, and black hair, is being linked to the attempted murder of K’zhari Stoutt, which took place on Friday, November 8, 2024, on Sand Box Road.
Authorities report that Martin, last known to reside in the Sand Box Road area, may be armed and is considered dangerous. The RVIPF warns the public not to approach Martin if seen and instead urges anyone with information to come forward.
In addition to the search for Martin, police are also requesting information regarding the whereabouts of another individual, Shemoi Carey, who is also sought by the RVIPF’s Criminal Investigation Department. Tips can be directed to RVIPF’s CID at 368-5323. All information will be treated with strict confidentiality.
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Crime/Police5 days agoTwo Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Crime/Police2 weeks agoShots Fired Near ESHS: Man Injured, High School Goes Into Lockdown
-
Crime/Police1 week agoK’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News5 days agoTola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Local News2 weeks agoVirgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoTortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Local News1 day agoVirgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Local News7 days agoBVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal