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USVI-BVI Joint Task Force Pursues Dinghy in Evening Operation

Editor — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:53:09 +0000

A joint task force comprising law enforcement officials from the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands pursued a dinghy on Wednesday evening, with the chase concluding near Towers around 8:15 p.m.

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have not disclosed whether any arrests were made or if contraband was recovered during the operation.

Further details regarding the circumstances of the pursuit and its outcome remain unclear.

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Legal Opinion Forces Delay of USVI’s 25% Tariff Discussion

Editor — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 11:56:20 +0000

A high-level meeting between Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and members of the U.S. Virgin Islands Legislature, originally set for February 26, was postponed following a legal opinion clarifying that the local government lacks the authority to impose a proposed 25% tariff on goods imported from the British Virgin Islands.

The meeting was expected to focus on the administration’s controversial tariff proposal, which would directly impact trade between the BVI and USVI. However, an opinion issued Tuesday by Senate legal counsel Sharline Rogers determined that only the U.S. president has the authority to impose tariffs, a power granted by the U.S. Constitution and delegated through the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act of 1934.

According to a spokesperson from Government House, Governor Bryan is now exploring legal avenues to introduce the tariff while also seeking a collaborative approach to address economic concerns within the charter and yacht industries of both the USVI and BVI. The governor intends to consult with local stakeholders before taking any further action.

Senator Kenneth Gittens, vice president of the Legislature, had requested the legal review to clarify the governor’s authority on the matter. The opinion reinforced that Congress holds the sole power to regulate trade duties and that any attempt by the USVI to unilaterally impose a tariff would be legally invalid.

Richard Motta Jr., Government House communications director, stated that Governor Bryan is aware of these legal constraints but remains committed to pursuing all possible options, including making a formal request to the federal government if necessary. Before doing so, Bryan plans to meet with members of the 36th Legislature and key economic stakeholders.

“The governor is working to bring together all relevant parties to find a fair resolution that benefits the charter and yacht industries in both the USVI and BVI, as well as other economic interests between the two territories,” said Motta.

In addition to the proposed tariff, the Bryan administration has floated the idea of introducing entry and exit fees for non-Virgin Islanders traveling between the two territories. This proposal is also expected to be part of the broader discussions between the USVI and BVI governments.

The legal opinion also highlighted that while the USVI Legislature has the authority to impose customs duties on goods imported for consumption within the territory, any broader tariff measures would require federal approval.

Governor Bryan is expected to hold further discussions with both USVI lawmakers and BVI officials before making any definitive decisions. Senate President Milton Potter noted that Bryan’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., may provide additional avenues to address trade concerns between the two territories.

Despite the legal setback, Bryan’s administration remains focused on engaging with senators and the BVI government to explore mutually beneficial solutions. “As it stands today, the governor’s posture remains unchanged—nothing is off the table,” Motta said. “The first step is to have these conversations, and that remains a priority.”

The postponed meeting between Governor Bryan and the USVI Legislature has yet to be rescheduled.

Source: WTJX Virgin Islands Public Broadcasting System

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ICE Agents Cannot Enter USVI Schools Without Judicial Warrant, Governor Says

Editor — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 12:45:20 +0000

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has made it clear that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents cannot enter school grounds in the U.S. Virgin Islands without a judicial warrant. In a memorandum issued on January 29, to cabinet members and government staff, Bryan outlined strict guidelines for handling ICE activity, particularly within public schools.

“Schools should not permit the agent to enter the school building without a warrant signed by a judicial officer,” the governor stated in the directive. He emphasised that administrative warrants, which are issued by immigration authorities but not approved by a judge, do not grant access to non-public locations such as schools.

The guidance also makes clear that ICE agents cannot question students without parental consent or request immigration-related information from school staff. Disclosing such details without a judicial order or subpoena could violate students’ rights.

Bryan instructed school officials to report any ICE presence immediately. “The Commissioner of Education shall immediately notify the Attorney General of reported ICE activity,” the memorandum states.

The governor also reaffirmed that local law enforcement officers are not required to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. “Federal ICE activity is not sanctioned or assisted by local law enforcement,” he wrote, stressing that peace officers in the territory are responsible for protecting residents and enforcing local laws, not aiding federal immigration operations.

The directive has been met with support from education officials and community advocates.

“Our job is to educate and protect children, not to act as immigration enforcers,” said a senior Department of Education official. “This guidance ensures that our schools remain safe spaces for all students.”

Immigrant rights advocates also welcomed the governor’s stance. “Families should not have to live in fear that dropping their child off at school could result in an immigration encounter,” said a spokesperson for a local advocacy group.

While ICE has not publicly commented on its operations in the territory, Bryan’s memorandum sends a strong message that the USVI government will not facilitate federal immigration enforcement in schools.

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USVI Resident Arrested in BVI for Possession of Ammunition

Editor — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:41:42 +0000

A male resident of the United States Virgin Islands has been arrested by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) following the discovery of 200 rounds of ammunition during a stop-and-search operation of several vehicles.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool confirmed the arrest during a press conference held today, January 15, at Police Headquarters.

“While the officers were out investigating and responding to aforementioned incidents, officers stopped and searched several vehicles,” Commissioner Vanterpool stated. “During one of the searches, they discovered 200 rounds of ammunition in the possession of a male motorist. He was arrested, and several lines of inquiry are being conducted around the ammunition.”

The Acting Commissioner noted that while details of the case remain limited due to the ongoing investigation, the individual is confirmed to be a resident of the United States Virgin Islands. She assured the public that additional information on this and related matters would be provided in the coming days.

The public is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist ongoing investigations.

Further updates will be issued as new details emerge.

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BVI Belonger Arrested After High-Speed Chase in USVI Human Trafficking Operation

Editor — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 19:33:10 +0000

– Linked to 28-Person Trafficking Case in BVI

A citizen of the Dominican Republic, who holds Belonger Status in the British Virgin Islands, was arrested in the U.S. Virgin Islands on Wednesday night, September 25, after being caught trafficking two individuals into the territory.

Danny Dennevil, already facing charges in the BVI for human trafficking, was apprehended following a tense pursuit involving U.S. law enforcement. According to the Virgin Islands Consortium, U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents had been monitoring a 12-foot dinghy operated by Dennevil as it left Little Thatch Cay and Frenchman Cay in Tortola on the night of September 25, 2024.

The boat, powered by a single 25-horsepower Yamaha engine, crossed into U.S. waters and was tracked into Leinster Bay on St. John. Law enforcement agents, observing the vessel’s movements, pursued the boat into Annaberg, where two individuals disembarked. These individuals, later identified as nationals of the Dominican Republic, were taken into custody for entering the USVI without legal documentation.

As agents attempted to stop Dennevil from fleeing back to Tortola, he allegedly ignored their commands, prompting officers to disable his boat’s engine, forcing him to stop.

While court documents do not specify Dennevil’s nationality, reports indicate he informed U.S. agents that he was already facing trial in the British Virgin Islands for a separate human trafficking case. Dennevil had previously been arrested in November 2021 for allegedly facilitating the illegal entry of 28 individuals, including Haitians and South Americans, who were discovered in a Baughers Bay apartment on Tortola. He had spent a year in remand before being released pending trial.

During that 2021 incident, Dennevil reportedly admitted to assisting the group, claiming that one of the individuals was his girlfriend, “Blondie,” whom he had met at a strip club. According to his statements, he expected to be compensated with sexual favors. Blondie, however, told investigators she had offered Dennevil $1,000 for his help, while her male cousin, another passenger, claimed he paid $5,150 to be smuggled from the Dominican Republic to St. Thomas via Tortola.

Dennevil is now facing new charges in the U.S. Virgin Islands, adding to the legal troubles he already faces in the British Virgin Islands. The case underscores the region’s ongoing challenges with human trafficking, as local and U.S. authorities work to clamp down on smuggling operations that exploit vulnerable individuals.

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Stephany Andujar Crowned Miss Universe US Virgin Islands 2024

Editor — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 01:27:25 +0000

Stephany Andujar won the Miss Universe US Virgin Islands 2024 title, last night, August 18, at the Antilles Mark C. Marin Center, standing out among five talented contestants.

Representing St. Joseph & Rosendahl, Stephany not only took home the crown but also earned awards for Best Evening Wear and Best in Interview.

Britanny Robinson, representing Crown Mountain, was named the 1st Runner Up. Britanny’s performance also earned her awards for Best On Stage Q&A, Best National Costume.

Camille Paul, representing Strawberry Hill, secured the 2nd Runner Up position.

The Miss Community title went to Meagan Bryan of Agnes Fancy, in recognition of her dedication to community service.

Aminisha Bailey, representing Charlotte Amalie, also made a strong impression, winning Best in Swimwear.

As the newly crowned Miss Universe US Virgin Islands, Stephany Andujar will now take on the responsibility of representing the islands on the global Miss Universe stage.

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VC Bird International Airport to Close Due to Approaching Tropical System

Editor — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 23:11:38 +0000

The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced that VC Bird International Airport will cease operations at 8 p.m. tonight, August 12, in anticipation of an incoming tropical system.

This decision follows the latest guidance from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services. The ABAA expects the airport to resume normal commercial services by 3 p.m. tomorrow, Tuesday, August 13, depending on weather conditions.

Travelers and stakeholders are advised to follow updates from local disaster emergency services and take necessary precautions as the storm approaches. The ABAA will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates as needed.

For further information, travelers are encouraged to stay tuned to official advisories or contact their airlines directly.

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Governor Declares State of Energy Emergency in the US Virgin Islands

Editor — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 17:28:29 +0000

In response to escalating energy challenges, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. of the United States Virgin Islands has issued Executive Order No. 537-2024, declaring a State of Energy Emergency.

The proclamation comes amidst mounting concerns over the stability of the territory’s power supply, exacerbated by global geopolitical tensions and local financial strains.

Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the price of oil has been in a constant state of flux, impacting vital resources like diesel fuel and liquid propane. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East further compounds uncertainties surrounding crude oil prices. These fluctuations have placed immense strain on the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), hindering its ability to meet financial obligations to critical vendors.

As a consequence of payment delays, critical vendors have begun withholding services, precipitating rotating power outages across the territory. These outages not only threaten the health, safety, and economic stability of Virgin Islanders but also jeopardize the operation of essential services, including medical facilities and social service providers.

In response to the crisis, Governor Bryan has invoked his authority under Title 23, Section 1005 of the Virgin Islands Code to declare a State of Energy Emergency, effective immediately. The declaration empowers the Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) to activate the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) on St. Croix.

Furthermore, Governor Bryan has designated Daryl D. Jaschen as the Territorial Coordinating Officer (TCO) and Jenifer O’Neal as the Incident Commander to oversee the territorial response. Their directives include safeguarding public health, safety, and economic stability, as well as activating disaster preparation, response, and recovery plans.

To expedite the procurement of essential resources, Governor Bryan has suspended the provisions of Title 31, Chapter 23, Section 236 of the Virgin Islands Code pertaining to formal advertising of competitive bids. This measure aims to streamline the acquisition of goods and services crucial to energy production.

Governor Bryan calls upon all agencies under his direction to collaborate fully with the Incident Commander and TCO, emphasising the importance of a unified response to the energy crisis.

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Reggae Sensation Pressure Busspipe Hospitalised

Editor — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 18:34:19 +0000

United States Virgin Islands’ beloved reggae artist, Delyno Brown, widely known as Pressure Busspipe, today, April 16, posted a photo of himself lying in a hospital bed on his social media platform.

Alongside the image, he urged his followers to appreciate the gift of life, stating, “Not my typical content, but sometimes life happens and I want to encourage everyone to give Jah thanks for life.”

While the specifics of his health situation remain undisclosed, the outpouring of support from fans and fellow musicians speaks volumes about the impact he has had on countless lives.

“Jah give u strength and guidance mi Lord…. Keep being strong… A lion is a lion,” shared Cebisa BlackLove Nkoloti, expressing solidarity and faith in Pressure’s journey.

“Faith in recovery, you get out of that bed soon my brother,” another fan, Shety Touray, offered words of encouragement, reflecting the unwavering support from Pressure’s devoted fanbase.

“Quick recovery Pressure, I feel it …… Yah good deeds, Jah gara reward with muo lyf,” shared Edwin O. Alwala, encapsulating the collective hope for Pressure’s swift recovery and return to the stage.

Pressure Busspipe’s dedication to the Rastafari movement has long been a cornerstone of his identity, infusing his music with messages of empowerment and spiritual awakening.

Initially rising to fame as a member of the Star Lion Family reggae group, comprising seven talented local artists, Pressure Busspipe quickly garnered attention in regional and national reggae circles. His distinctive sound and impassioned performances resonated deeply with listeners, solidifying his place as a respected figure in the genre.

Fans and well-wishers continue to flood social media with messages of love and support.

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Rock City Theron Thomas Wins Grammy Award for Songwriter of the Year

Editor — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:03:30 +0000

Virgin Islander Theron Thomas is the 66th annual Grammy Awards Songwriter of the Year (Non-Classical).

Thomas secured the prestigious accolade with an impressive repertoire of hits throughout the year, including chart-toppers like “Pretty Girls Walk” by Big Boss Vette, the viral sensation, “Told Ya,” featuring Chlöe & Missy Elliot, and “Been Thinking” by Tyla. His outstanding work stood out among other formidable nominees in his category, earning him the nod from the Grammy judges.

This marks the second consecutive year that Theron Thomas has been recognised, previously earning acclaim for his contribution to Lizzo’s 2023 Record of the Year, “About Damn Time.”

Expressing his exhilaration, Thomas remarked, “This is going to show every youth in the Virgin Islands, every youth in the Caribbean – small islands especially – that we could dream bigger than we ever thought we could.”

Thomas acknowledged the greatness of his fellow nominees, including Justin Trantor. However, Thomas is no stranger to greatness, with an extensive list of writing credits for renowned artists such as Rihanna, Beyonce, Ciara, Victoria Monét, Lloyd, and K-Pop sensation Jung Kook.

According to Thomas, greatness abounds in the Virgin Islands, and he commended local talent, including Adam O, Pumpa, Pressure Buss Pipe, Monea, and others, for leading the charge in the musical arena. While he acknowledges the need for continued efforts to establish the Virgin Islands’ musical identity globally, Thomas remains optimistic about the region’s potential.

Reflecting on his journey, Thomas admitted that he never envisioned receiving global acclaim when he began his musical career. “I just wanted to take care of my daughter and get my parents out of the projects, you know?” Despite surpassing his initial goals, Thomas embraces his role as a role model for younger Virgin Islanders, aiming to set an example of truth and realistic goals.

For aspiring talents, Thomas advocates embracing imperfections, learning from mistakes, and evolving. “You don’t have to walk this perfect line that the world tells you,” he advises. “Make as many mistakes as you can, learn from them, and get better from them.”

Above all, Thomas emphasises the importance of infusing love into everything one does, offering a poignant message of inspiration to aspiring artists and the youth of the Virgin Islands.

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