Flax-Charles secured the coveted 2026–2027 VI Model of the Year title, while Brookes was named VI Child Model of the Year. Jeniqua Weekes of St. Croix won the VI Commercial Model of the Year title.

The competition, part of St. Croix Style Fashion Week organised by JG Management under Jason Gardener, brought together contestants from across the Virgin Islands for runway presentations, judging and professional exposure.

In the VI Model of the Year category, Shakira Patricia Hendrickson of the British Virgin Islands was named runner-up to Flax-Charles. Malacoy Levons of the British Virgin Islands placed behind Weekes in the Commercial Model category, while Gianna Gugger was runner-up in the Child Model category.

Organisers said the competition is intended to provide a platform for emerging talent while preparing participants for professional opportunities in the fashion industry.

The event featured a series of activities, including a Style and Beauty Expo, black carpet arrivals and a live competition segment.

Designer showcases formed a central part of the programme, with full collections presented by Morgan Creque of M Organic VI in the British Virgin Islands, Lorna Spogoo Roberts of Black Pine Vintage Alabama, and Pamela Leverett-Love of Amour Magique VI in St. John.

A special segment also highlighted couture denim and jewellery looks from Kids Rock Fashion Weekend 2026.

Participants underwent training sessions ahead of the competition led by supermodel Jenna-Monét, who also introduced her platform, “I Represent Beauty,” aimed at promoting confidence and representation within the industry.

The Virgin Islands Model of the Year Competition continues to serve as a regional platform for talent development, with organisers noting its role in preparing models for opportunities across the Caribbean and internationally.

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Olivares-Taveras was ordered detained Sept. 24, 2025, pending trial or until the defense requests a reopening of his detention hearing. His arrest followed a Sept. 22 operation on St. Thomas by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and partner law enforcement agencies, the VI Consortium reported.

According to court documents, HSI agents stopped a vehicle driven by Olivares-Taveras during an immigration enforcement operation. Agents reported seeing a white powdery substance in the driver’s side door panel. A search uncovered 11 baggies containing a substance that tested positive for cocaine and about $4,000 in U.S. currency.

During an interview, Olivares-Taveras admitted the cocaine and money were his and said he had entered the United States unlawfully in February 2025 by boat from Tortola to St. John without presenting himself at a port of entry, prosecutors said.

He is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), and illegal entry into the United States, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1325(a)(1). The drug charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

The case is being investigated by HSI and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant U.S. Attorney Cherrisse R. Amaro is prosecuting.

Authorities noted that a criminal complaint is an allegation and that defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.

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Popular U.S. Virgin Islands artist, Pressure, was robbed at gunpoint early Sunday morning, March 16, after performing at the Black on Black concert, an event headlined by dancehall superstar Vybz Kartel. The incident occurred as Pressure and his entourage walked to their vehicle parked across from First Bank.

Surveillance footage obtained by JTV confirms the robbery, which took place around 3:26 am. The video, now in circulation, captures the moment two armed men exited a white SUV parked in front of the gated parking lot opposite First Bank. The assailants confronted Pressure and his entourage, causing most of the group to flee. One of the attackers then proceeded to rob Pressure, appearing to take what looked like his jewelry, before escaping the scene.

https://www.facebook.com/jtv55/videos/989375819492738

The entire incident lasted about two minutes, after which the video ends with Pressure standing alone by the vehicle he was originally entering, appearing shaken but unharmed as the assailants made their getaway.

“It is unacceptable and highly regrettable that he and others went through this,” the Premier stated. “Crime and violence are not what we want as a society and certainly not the image we want to project to the world.”

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has confirmed that the past weekend was particularly active in terms of criminal activity.

Premier Wheatley reiterated the government’s commitment to working with law enforcement and the wider community to curb criminal activities. A Crime Summit is currently being planned to develop a coordinated response.

“For those individuals who insist on terrorising our community, the police will continue to pursue you vigorously,” he warned. “I also urge members of the public to assist law enforcement by sharing any information that may aid investigations.”

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Authorities confirmed that 32-year-old Demare A. Encarnacion was returned to St. Thomas on March 18, 2025, to face charges related to the fatal shooting of Cecil R. Scatliffe, 59.

The case dates back to October 13, 2024, when the 911 Emergency Call Center received an alert from the ShotSpotter Detection System at approximately 3:03 a.m., indicating multiple gunshots on Kronprindsens Gade. Responding officers discovered an unresponsive male with multiple gunshot wounds. Emergency Medical Technicians pronounced the victim deceased at the scene, later identifying him as Scatliffe.

An arrest warrant was issued for Encarnacion on October 17, 2024, charging him with first-degree murder. Authorities pursued the suspect for months until he voluntarily surrendered to law enforcement in Tortola, British Virgin Islands.

Following his surrender, the RVIPF coordinated with VIPD and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force to facilitate his transfer. On March 18, members of the VIPD’s Marine Unit traveled to Tortola, took Encarnacion into custody, and transported him back to St. Thomas. He was formally arrested and charged with murder in the first degree, with bail set at $1,000,000.

Officials have not disclosed further details regarding a potential motive or additional suspects. Encarnacion is expected to appear in court in the coming days.

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The closure, which began last night, has disrupted regional travel, with airlines forced to reschedule or cancel flights. The Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) is working to clear the disabled aircraft from the runway, with reopening expected by 2:00 p.m.

Passengers relying on St. Thomas as a transit point are urged to check with their airlines for updates as authorities work to restore normal operations.

Source: VI Consortium

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The plane, carrying one pilot and two passengers, was approaching the BVI when warning indicators signaled a critical issue. With safety as the top priority, the pilot opted to divert to St. Thomas, where the aircraft landed safely.

According to a source, the hydraulic problem began during the instrument approach into the BVI. The pilot chose to divert to the U.S. Virgin Islands due to its longer runway, ensuring a safer landing. The aircraft was registered in the United States, bearing a November registration.

While there were no reported injuries, the disabled aircraft remains on the airport’s sole runway, causing temporary disruptions to flights in and out of St. Thomas. The Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA) has deployed resources to remove the plane as quickly as possible, with the airport expected to reopen by 2:00 p.m. today.

Travelers with connections through St. Thomas are advised to stay updated on flight schedules as officials work to restore normal operations.

Source: VI Consortium

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The discussions, held in the BVI,  today, March 7, centred on ensuring that BVI-based boaters are not disproportionately impacted by USVI tariff structures, while also ensuring that USVI-based boaters contribute their fair share to the economies they operate in. Both leaders acknowledged their dedication to reaching a balanced solution, with Premier Hon. Wheatley reaffirming his commitment not to advance new legislation until further discussions solidify a mutually beneficial agreement.

Governor Bryan, leading a high-level delegation, highlighted the importance of collaboration, stressing that economic pressures are not unique to the Virgin Islands but are part of a global reality. “The devil is always in the details,” he said, during a press conference with Hon. Wheatley,  held after the discussions, stressing the need to refine financial calculations before finalising any decisions.

He also highlighted the necessity for fairness, stating that while many businesses profit from both territories, they must also contribute fairly to the communities sustaining them.

Premier Wheatley echoed these sentiments, recognising the challenges but reinforcing the strong relationship between the territories. “Every friendship has disagreements, but the test of true friendship is how we resolve them,” he said. While no final decisions were reached, both leaders agreed to reconvene soon, aiming to finalise a path forward before June.

The discussions also touched on broader cooperation, including increasing the greater Virgin Islands’ share of the global tourism market through joint initiatives.

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Governor Bryan further expressed his intention to lobby President Donald Trump for support in imposing these tariffs, stressing that the USVI will not back down from defending its economic interests.

Today’s meeting aims to find an equitable resolution that will preserve the longstanding economic and cultural ties between the neighbouring territories.

The current strain stems from proposed amendments to the BVI’s Commercial Recreational Vessels Licensing Act, initially enacted in 1992. These amendments suggest a substantial hike in fees for foreign-based charter yachts operating within BVI waters. Notably, the annual fee for overnight operators could surge from $400 to $24,000—a 60-fold increase.

This proposal has raised significant concerns among U.S. Virgin Islands officials and stakeholders in the charter yacht industry, who fear detrimental impacts on their operations and the broader maritime economy.

In reaction to the proposed fee hikes, Governor Bryan has advocated for a reciprocal approach to safeguard the interests of the USVI’s charter yacht sector. He has called for an emergency session with USVI lawmakers to deliberate on imposing a 25% tariff on goods imported from the BVI. Governor Bryan emphasized the intertwined nature of the two territories’ economies and the importance of mutual respect in policy decisions. He stated, “Our people are family. Our economies are intertwined. And our success has always been built on a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect.” He further acknowledged the BVI’s efforts to bolster its industry but underscored that such measures should not come at the expense of the USVI’s interests.

Premier Wheatley has expressed a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to address the concerns raised by the USVI. He has invited Governor Bryan to the BVI to continue discussions, reflecting a commitment to finding a mutually beneficial solution. The Premier’s openness to negotiation indicates a recognition of the potential economic ramifications and the need to maintain harmonious relations between the territories.

The proposed fee increases have significant implications for the charter yacht industry, a vital component of the Virgin Islands’ tourism sector. The BVI and USVI have traditionally been popular destinations for yacht charters, offering unique sailing experiences in the Caribbean. However, the substantial fee hikes could deter USVI-based yachts from operating in BVI waters, potentially leading to a decline in tourism revenue for both territories. Conversely, the USVI’s contemplated 25% tariff on BVI imports could affect trade dynamics, influencing the cost of goods and services between the islands.

This meeting is not the first instance of collaboration between Governor Bryan and Premier Wheatley. In September 2022, they convened to discuss shared interests, including tourism, internet connectivity, and boating regulations, highlighting a history of cooperative engagement.

Today’s discussions aim to build on this foundation, seeking to resolve current challenges through diplomacy and mutual understanding.

The outcome of today’s meeting holds significant consequences for the future of the charter yacht industry and the broader economic relationship between the USVI and BVI. Stakeholders from both territories are hopeful that the leaders will reach an agreement that balances regulatory objectives with economic sustainability, ensuring the continued prosperity of the Virgin Islands’ maritime and tourism sectors.

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Governor Albert Bryan Jr. vows to take the USVI-BVI trade dispute to President Trump if necessary, accusing Senator Gittens of undermining negotiations. The canceled meeting will be rescheduled as officials work toward a resolution that protects USVI interests.

Following the abrupt cancellation of a scheduled meeting between the 36th Legislature and Bryan administration officials regarding the ongoing trade dispute with the British Virgin Islands, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. condemned Senator Kenneth Gittens for weakening the territory’s negotiating stance. Bryan also stated that he is prepared to petition President Trump to impose tariffs on the BVI that could have significant economic repercussions.

The meeting was canceled after information was made public regarding the USVI’s lack of authority to levy tariffs independently. Senator Gittens had sought clarification from the Senate’s legal counsel on the issue, and the legal opinion confirmed that only the President of the United States has the power to impose such tariffs. Governor Bryan believes that by making this information public, the USVI’s negotiating position was undermined, leading to the sudden cancellation of the meeting.

“Whose side is he on?” Governor Bryan said, referring to Senator Gittens. “It’s about his ego. He isn’t about the Virgin Islands.” The governor had initially called for the emergency meeting to discuss imposing a 25% tariff on BVI goods in response to proposed legislation in the BVI that would significantly raise charter fees. USVI marine industry leaders have warned that such a move could severely impact local businesses.

Governor Bryan stressed that his administration is moving forward with decisive action against the BVI. He also revealed that if necessary, he would seek support from President Trump to implement the proposed tariffs.

“We are moving forward with our own strategy, and if we need help from the White House, I’ll get it from there too,” Bryan said. “I don’t think it will come to that, but I have shared my position with the Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House. He told me, ‘If you need my help, just let me know.’” The governor noted that his goal is to create an equitable and sustainable sailing and charter boat environment in the greater Virgin Islands.

The meeting has been rescheduled for next week, the governor revealed. He also noted that BVI officials have indicated a willingness to collaborate on a deal that would be beneficial to all parties involved. Discussions are expected to focus on finding a resolution that supports both territories’ economic interests while addressing concerns raised by USVI marine industry leaders.

Source: VI Consortium

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The legal opinion, delivered through the chief legal counsel of the Legislature, Amos Carty Jr., was issued in response to inquiries from Senate Vice President Kenneth Gittens. It further stated that the governor cannot independently impose fees on goods and services entering the Virgin Islands from the British Virgin Islands or other foreign countries. While the Revised Organic Act grants the Legislature authority to impose customs duties on imported goods for consumption, no such authority extends to the governor.

The opinion comes as the officers of the 36th Legislature prepare to convene an emergency meeting with Governor Albert Bryan Jr. today, Wednesday, February 26. The meeting was requested by the governor in a February 19 letter to Senate President Milton Potter, in which he urged immediate legislative action to address what he described as an “increasing imbalance in cross-border trade and travel.” Bryan proposed a tariff of at least 25% on goods imported from the British Virgin Islands and the introduction of entry and exit fees for non-Virgin Islanders traveling between the two territories.

Senate President Potter announced the emergency meeting on February 21, stating that the Office of the Governor would present briefings on trade imbalances, economic impacts, revenue projections, enforcement mechanisms, and potential effects on tourism and local businesses.

“We recognize the urgency of addressing economic challenges facing our territory,” Potter said in a statement. “The Legislature looks forward to engaging in productive discussion with the Governor’s Office while ensuring any proposed measures protect our local economy and maintain positive relations with our brothers and sisters in the BVI.”

Meanwhile, concerns have been growing within the local marine industry regarding proposed regulatory changes in the British Virgin Islands. At a town hall meeting on February 18, organised by the Virgin Islands Professional Charter Association, industry stakeholders expressed alarm over steep increases in chartering permit fees for foreign-based vessels and new restrictions on home-based vessel definitions. One attendee suggested a retaliatory response to the BVI’s protectionist measures.

Despite these concerns, the legal opinion confirms that the governor lacks the authority to unilaterally impose tariffs or fees on cross-border trade. Any action on the matter would require intervention at the federal level or legislative measures within the Virgin Islands’ constitutional framework.

Source: WTJX Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting System

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