District of the Virgin Islands
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and Project Safe Neighborhoods: Town Hall Meeting: Kirwan Terrace Community June 14th at 6:00 p.m.Read the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI - United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced that she and federal law enforcement partners, plus members of the District’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force, will participate in a Town Hall Meeting at the Kirwan Terrace Community on Thursday, June 14th at 6:00 p.m. The purpose of the meeting is to provide community members with an opportunity to share their ideas and concerns about public safety. The United States Attorney will also discuss the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative.
According to U.S. Attorney Shappert, "Project Safe Neighborhoods is the centerpiece of our crime reduction strategy. It is a tested and proven program to invest in our communities and foster vital partnerships. PSN enables the United States Attorney’s Office, together with our law enforcement partners, to target and prioritize criminal prosecutions on the most violent people in the most violent areas. Second, we engage with a wide variety of stakeholders—from federal and local law enforcement, to community groups, educators, faith-based organizations, and victims’ advocates—in order to identify the needs specific to our communities and to develop strategies to reduce crime. The Kirwan Terrace Community Town Hall Meeting is a wonderful opportunity for us to hear what matters most to the citizens who live there." U.S. Attorney Shappert emphasized that the June 14th Town Hall is only one of several PSN outreach activities planned for the next several months.
Additional information about Project Safe Neighborhoods can be found on the U.S. Attorney’s Office website, https://www.justice.gov/usao-vi.
Mexican Man Arrested at the Cyril E. King Airport Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Filiberto Moreno, 50, of Mexico, pleaded guilty today in District Court before District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez, to illegal reentry into the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Sentencing is set for August 23, 2018.
According to court documents, Moreno was stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Cyril E. King airport after he presented himself at primary inspection. During the inspection process, Customs agents discovered that Moreno had been previously deported from the United States and that he did not have permission to legally be in the territory.
Moreno faces a maximum sentence of two years and a fine of $250,000.
The case was investigated byHomeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection(CBP) and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Former DPNR Officer Gerald Mercer found Guilty of Cocaine Smuggling Conspiracy at Cyril E. King AirportRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Former Department of Planning and Natural Resources Officer Gerald Mercer, 43, was found guilty by a jury in federal court on Thursday, May 31, 2018, before District Judge Curtis Gomez of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute not less than 50 and not more than 150 kilograms of cocaine, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert announced today.
According to trial testimony provided by a former security officer at the Office of the Governor, Mercer was the mastermind of a large-scale drug trafficking organization that operated in the Virgin Islands from 2011 through 2016. In 2011, Mercer recruited the security officer and convinced him to use his law enforcement credentials to bypass security screening at Cyril E. King Airport in order to smuggle kilogram quantities of cocaine from St. Thomas to Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Once the cocaine arrived in Florida, Mercer directed the security officer to deliver his cocaine to a coconspirator for distribution in the continental United States at $33,000 per kilogram. Trial testimony also indicated that in 2014, the security officer and Florida coconspirator cut Mercer out of the organization, due to Mercer’s nonpayment of a $70,000 debt. Thereafter, members of the conspiracy continued the cocaine smuggling operation using the system Mercer had originally devised in 2011. After being shut out of the drug smuggling organization, Mercer persistently tried to regain membership, but his coconspirators refused. Trial testimony established that Mercer ultimately decided to expose the organization’s smuggling activities to law enforcement.
According to trial testimony, the smuggling operation was interdicted by federal law enforcement on September 3, 2016, after Mercer contacted a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent and reported that one of his former colleagues was traveling through the St. Thomas airport on that day with a quantity of cocaine. Witnesses at trial stated that Mercer instructed the CBP agent not to reveal that he (Mercer) was the source of intelligence information which lead to the apprehension of Mercer’s former colleague, the drug courier. At trial, the U.S. Attorney’s Office presented cell phone records to corroborate that Mercer’s call to the CBP agent was made within minutes of the drug courier’s arrest at the airport with cocaine. CBP agents seized 22 kilograms ofcocaine from the courier’scarryon suitcase, and evidence presented at trial showedthat the last person the courier saw, prior to his apprehension, was infact Mercer.
Other members of the conspiracy have already enteredguilty pleas in this case. As a resultof his conviction, Mercer facesimprisonmentof not less than 10 years and not more than life, anda fine of up to $10,000,000. He wasdetained pending sentencing.
This case was investigated by Homeland SecurityInvestigations, Federal Bureau ofInvestigations and Drug Enforcement Administration and was prosecuted by Assistant United States AttorneysDelia Smith and Meredith Edwards.
Two Tortola Men Arrested at the Cyril E. King Airport for Allegedly Smuggling 11 Kilograms of Cocaine with the intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Jason Frett, 36, and Ashley Warner, 54, both of Tortola, were arrested today on a complaint charging them with possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Frett and Warner made their initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller and were detained pending further proceedings.
According to the complaint, Frett and Warner were stopped by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the Cyril E. King airport after it was discovered that Frett and Warner were attempting to smuggle eleven kilograms of cocaine through the airport to the U.S. mainland in coolers. The white powdery substance discovered inside the coolers, field tested positive for cocaine and weighed approximately 11 kilograms.
If convicted of possession of a controlled substance with the intent to distribute, Frett and Warner face a term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and not more than life and a fine of $10,000,000.00.
The case is being investigated Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Thomas Boat Captain Arrested on Charges of Smuggling Illegal Aliens from Dominican Republic and Others Arrested for Illegal Reentry by Aggravated Felons into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On May 10, 2018, Shawn A. Callwood, 36, of St. Thomas, Glenys Gruz-Calcano, 28, Anyi Paola Calcano, 19, Luis Alberto Pimentel Gautier, 42, and Rafael Morales-Osoria, 35, all of Dominican Republic, made their initial appearances before U.S. District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez, after being charged in criminal complaints with alien smuggling and illegal reentry into the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Judge Gomez detained all five defendants pending further proceedings.
According to the complaint, on May 9, 2018, the Marine Interdiction Agents (MIA) of the Air and Marine Operations (AMO) intercepted Callwood’s vessel in the U.S. territorial waters near St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Callwood failed to yield to both lights and sirens directing him to stop, and a warning shot was fired across the bow of Callwood’s vessel. Five undocumented illegal aliens, including Glenys Gruz-Calcano, Anyi Paola Calcano, Luis Alberto Pimentel Gautier, and Rafael Morales-Osoria, were discovered on board when the vessel came to a stop. Luis Alberto Pimentel Gautier and Rafael Morales-Osoria both have been previously deported from the United States pursuant to felony convictions.
Callwood is facing up to 10 years in prison for smuggling illegal aliens into the United States. Luis Alberto Pimentel Gautier and Rafael Morales-Osoria both face up to 20 years in prison for illegal reentry by an aggravated felon.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations (AMO), the USCG and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anna A. Vlasova.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that a complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
St. Croix Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery of St. Thomas Jewelry StoreRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On May 10, 2018, District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Robert Brown, 28, to 4 years imprisonment and three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Judge Gomez also ordered Brown to perform 400 hours of community service and pay a special assessment of $100.
On January 4, 2018, Brown pleaded guilty to a one-count Information, charging him with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery.
On October 20, 2017, Brown was charged in a one-count Information, which was a result of an investigation into Hobbs Act robbery of Gems and Gold Corner Jewelry Store on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands on September 16, 2013. According to the Information, Brown and other individuals conspired to rob this jewelry store and brandished weapons to threaten and intimidate the storeowner.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna A. Vlasova and Kim L. Chisholm.
New York Man Sentenced to Prison for Violent Hobbs Act Robberies of Two St. Thomas Jewelry Stores and Related Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On May 3, 2018, District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Jakeem Emmanuel, 21, to 8 years and 6 months imprisonment and five years of supervised release, for Hobbs Act Robbery and related gun charges, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Judge Gomez also ordered Emmanuel to perform 400 hours of community service and pay a special assessment of $300.
On August 10, 2016, Emmanuel pleaded guilty to two counts of Hobbs Act Robbery, one count of Brandishing a Firearm during a Federal Crime of Violence, and Assault in the First Degree.
On March 3, 2016, a federal grand jury returned an 8-count indictment, which was a result of an investigation into Hobbs Act robberies of two jewelry stores on St. Thomas: Signature Jewelers on August 19, 2015, and 3G’s Jewelry and Repair on September 14, 2015. According to the Indictment, Emmanuel and other individuals conspired to rob the stores and brandished weapons to threaten and intimidate store employees. The robbers used duct tape to bind and gag the victims and then fled the store with cash and merchandise.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anna A. Vlasova.
Previously Deported St. Lucia National Arrested for Illegal Re-Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On May 1, 2018, Isidore Francis Isidore, 61, of St. Lucia, was detained pending further proceedings after his arrest on April 28, 2018, for illegal re-entry into the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert, announced. He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on Monday after being charged by a criminal complaint.
According to the criminal complaint, on or about April 28, 2018, Isidore arrived in U.S. Customs water around the Red Hook area of St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, on a private watercraft. He had previously been ordered for removal in 2014, after having been convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude.
Illegal re-entry after deportation or removal carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that a criminal complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is a result of an investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anna A. Vlasova.
United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert takes the Oath as the Court-appointed United States Attorney for the Virgin IslandsRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI- This afternoon, the Honorable Wilma A. Lewis, U.S. District Court Chief Judge, administered the oath of office to United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert at the Almeric L. Christian Federal Courthouse on St. Croix. Ms. Shappert was appointed by U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions to serve as the Interim United States Attorney, effective on January 5, 2018 for a term of 120 days. Following today’s oath, Shappert becomes the court-appointed United States Attorney, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 546(d), effective May 5, 2018. "It is a tremendous privilege and honor to serve as the United States Attorney in the Virgin Islands," said Shappert. "I am committed to upholding the Constitution and the laws of the United States." Ms. Shappert stressed her dedication to the priorities of the Attorney General, including apprehending and prosecuting violent offenders and drug traffickers, and working with federal and territorial law enforcement to enhance public safety.
Prior to her appointment in the Virgin Islands, Ms. Shappert served as the Assistant Director for the Indian, Violent and Cyber Crime Staff in the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) of the Department of Justice. Before joining EOUSA, she served as the United States Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina from 2004-2009 and as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) from 1990-2004. As the United States Attorney and as an AUSA, she prosecuted a wide range of criminal defendants including outlaw motorcycle gangs and violent drug organizations. Ms. Shappert also served as an Assistant District Attorney, an Assistant Public Defender, and in private practice prior to her federal service. She received her B.A. from Duke University in 1977 and her J.D. from Washington & Lee University School of Law in 1980.
Previously Deported Dominican Republic National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Gustavo Adolfo Jimenez Polanco, 30, a Dominican Republic national, pleaded guilty today in district court to illegal reentry into the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Polanco remains in custody pending his sentencing scheduled for August 23, 2018.
According to the plea agreement, Polanco appeared at the Cyril E. King Airport on February 10, 2018 and was questioned regarding a Florida Driver’s License that he presented to the primary inspector at the U.S. Customs and Border Protection checkpoint. The primary inspector referred him to secondary inspection where it was determined that Polanco was a Dominican Republic national who had been deported from the United States on July 1, 2014.
Under federal law, Polanco faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
Two Men Apprehended at the Emancipation Gardens Post Office Plead Guilty to Possession of Cocaine with the Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Tommy Ramirez, 29, of the Dominican Republic and Ramon Clavel, 55, of Haiti, plead guilty today in District Court before District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez, to possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court documents, on February 12, 2018, Ramirez instructed Clavel to present himself at the Emancipation Gardens post office to claim a package that contained a white powdery substance. The white powdery substance was sent to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory and testing confirmed to be one kilogram of cocaine, a controlled substance.
Ramirez and Clavel face a minimum sentence of five years and a fine of $250,000.00. Sentencing is scheduled for August 23, 2018.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Postal Inspection Services (USPIS), and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon Who Brandished a Firearm Adjacent to a Local Business Following a Verbal ConfrontationRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- After a one day trial, a federal jury on Monday found Rehelio Trant, 39, of St. Thomas, guilty of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Gretchen C. F. Shappert announced.
Trant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for August 16, 2018.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on October 16, 2017, the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) received a report from an individual that Trant brandished a firearm after a verbal confrontation with the individual adjacent to a local business. Trant had a prior conviction for a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and firearms are not manufactured in the Virgin Islands.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Terminix Employee Illegally Applied Pesticides Containing Methyl Bromide to Residences in St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I.Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jose Rivera, 59, was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury for violating the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. According to the indictment, Rivera illegally applied fumigants containing methyl bromide in multiple residential locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including the condominium resort complex in St. John, where a family of four fell seriously ill in March 2015, announced Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Environment and Natural Resources Division and United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands.
The indictment alleges that Rivera knowingly applied restricted-use fumigants at the Sirenusa resort in St. John for the purpose of exterminating household pests on or about Oct. 20, 2014, and on or about March 18, 2015. The defendant was also charged with applying the restricted-use pesticide in eight residential units in St. Croix and one additional unit in St. Thomas between April 2013 and February 2015.
In 1984, EPA banned the indoor use of methyl bromide products. The few remaining uses are severely restricted. Pesticides containing methyl bromide in the U.S. are restricted-use due to their acute toxicity, meaning that they must only be applied by a certified applicator. Health effects of acute exposure to methyl bromide are serious and include central nervous system and respiratory system damage. Pesticides can be very toxic and it is critically important that they be used only as approved by EPA.
Earlier this year, TERMINIX LP and TERMINIX, USVI were sentenced to pay a total of $9.2 million in criminal fines and restitution. The companies were also ordered to perform community service following an investigation and guilty pleas to their use and application of illegal fumigants in multiple residential locations in the Virgin Islands.
The case was investigated by EPA Criminal Investigation Division, working cooperatively with the Virgins Islands government and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart of the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim L. Chisholm for the District of the Virgin Islands are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Patricia Hick, EPA Region II Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until, and unless, proven guilty.
For more information about EPA’s pesticide program and its requirements, visit www.epa.gov/pesticides/.
For more information on methyl bromide, visit www.epa.gov/region2/methyl-bromide.pdf.
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St. Croix Man Sentenced to Prison for His Involvement in a Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to Distribute at the Rohlsen AirportRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Dimitrous Jefferson, 29, of St. Croix, was sentenced on April 9, 2018 for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis sentenced Jefferson to twenty-four months in prison. Judge Lewis also sentenced Jefferson to three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment.
On February 27, 2017, Jefferson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. According to documents filed in court, on May 4, 2016, the defendant and another individual who were employed by Worldwide Flight Services at the Rohlsen Airport, entered the TSA screening area before their scheduled shifts. The defendant attempted to pass through the screening area and triggered the metal detector. A search of his person revealed a brick-like package wrapped with gray duct tape strapped to one of his legs. The other individual also had a similar package strapped to one of his legs. The packages field-tested positive for cocaine.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
California Man Apprehended at Cyril E. King Airport Pleads Guilty to Possession of Marijuana with the intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Kelley Hansen, 28, of California, pleaded guilty today in District Court before District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez, to possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court documents, after communicating with an individual about the sale of marijuana, Hansen agreed to travel to St. Thomas from California to complete the sale. Hansen arrived on St. Thomas onboard a commercial airline and was found in possession of approximately two kilograms of marijuana.
Hansen faces a sentence of not more than five years in prison and a fine of $250,000.00. His sentencing is scheduled for June 21, 2018.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
U.S. Marshals Arrest Federal Escapee Nathaniel Thomas and VIPD Homicide Suspect Ivan JamesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, VI –U.S. Marshal Jim Clark for the District of the Virgin Islands announced the arrest of federal escapee Nathaniel Thomas who was wanted for Escape and Ivan James wanted for Double Homicide by the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD).
On March 15th, 2018 federal inmate Nathaniel Thomas escaped from the Golden Grove Detention Center two days after being convicted by a jury in District Court for weapons related offenses. Ivan James was wanted by the Virgin Islands Police Department for the double homicide that occurred in February of 2018 at the cockpit located in St. Croix. Early this morning the U.S. Marshals from the District of the Virgin Islands working with the U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force and the U.S. Marshals Task Force in Puerto Rico located and arrested Nathaniel Thomas along with Ivan James without incident in Ponce, PR.
During this fugitive investigation the U.S. Marshals were assisted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States Attorney’s Office, and Crime Stoppers USVI.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to Prison for His Role in Conspiracy to Possess a Cocaine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Ray Harris, Jr., 24, of St. Croix, was sentenced on April 5, 2018 for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis sentenced Harris to twenty-four months in prison. Judge Lewis also sentenced Harris to three years of supervised release, a $1,000 fine and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment.
On February 17, 2017, Harris pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess a controlled substance with intent to distribute. According to documents filed in court, on May 4, 2016, the defendant and another individual who were employed by Worldwide Flight Services at the Rohlsen Airport, entered the TSA screening area before their scheduled shifts. The defendant attempted to pass through the screening area and triggered the metal detector. A search of his person revealed a brick-like package wrapped with gray duct tape strapped to one of his legs. The other individual also had a similar package strapped to one of his legs. The packages field-tested positive for cocaine.
The case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Man Pleads Guilty to Reentry by an Alien After Removal and Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – James Charlery, 53, currently of St. Croix, was sentenced on March 28, 2018, in District Count on the counts of Reentry by an Alien After Removal and Illegal Alien in Possession of a Firearm, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Chief Judge Wilma A. Lewis sentenced Charlery to fifteen (15) months in prison, followed by one (1) year of supervised release, and ordered Charlery to pay a fine of $500 and a special assessment of $200. Upon the completion of his sentence, Charlery faces deportation, as an immigration detainer has been placed on him by the Department of Homeland Security.
Charlery entered a guilty plea to these charges on December 29, 2017 and admitted that he was an illegal alien who had unlawfully reentered the Territory of the Virgin Islands after his deportation in 1995 to St. Lucia. He also acknowledged that on May 25, 2017, he illegally possessed a loaded firearm, a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver, at the Frontline Bar and Restaurant in Frederiksted.
The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm with Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Dale Ritter, 53, of St. Croix, pled guilty on March 23, 2018, in District Count to one federal count of Possession of a Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number, and one local count of Illegal Use of Utility Equipment, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
This federal offense carries a possible sentence of incarceration of up to 5 years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000 dollars, and a term of supervised release for not more than 3 years. The local offense carries a potential fine of not less than $500 nor more than $3,000, or a prison sentence of up to 1 year. Sentencing is set for July 25, 2018.
According to court documents, on July 21, 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) executed a search warrant at Ritter’s residence in Frederiksted, St. Croix. During the execution of this search warrant, DEA agents located a Taurus Millennium 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number. This firearm was determined to be operable and had been shipped in interstate commerce. Additionally, the agents located unauthorized electric wires running from a pole owned by WAPA that provided electricity to Ritter’s residence and a marijuana grow room.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Task Force Officers with the Virgin Islands Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
Two Men Detained after their Arrests for Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On March 21, 2018, Dexter Harley, 32, of Tortola, BVI, and Jose Squiabro, 44, of St. Thomas, were both detained today pending further proceedings after their arrests on Monday, March 19, 2018, for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert, announced. Both made their initial appearances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on Monday after being charged in an indictment.
According to the indictment, from December 15, 2015 to February 9, 2016, Harley and Squiabro conspired to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a substance that contained cocaine.
Possession with intent to distribute cocaine in the amount for 500 grams or more carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This case is a result of an investigation by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anna A. Vlasova.
Federal Jury Convicts Man of Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – After a two-day trial, a federal jury on Tuesday found Nathaniel Thomas, Jr., 28, of St. Croix, guilty of being a felon in possession of a Firearm, unlawful possession of a firearm and reckless endangerment, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Thomas faces up to 10 years in prison for the felon in possession count of conviction, a mandatory minimum of fifteen years and up to twenty years in prison on the unlawful possession count and up to five years in prison on the reckless endangerment count.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Thomas drove a vehicle into the Gas For Less Service Station on St. Croix in the early morning hours on May 15, 2016. He was followed by individuals in a Ford Explorer. Thomas stopped his car, came out and hid between nearby vehicles as the Explorer shifted into reverse. At this point shots were being discharged. When the Explorer started to leave the service station, Thomas chased the Explorer on foot while discharging shots toward the vehicle. He subsequently returned to his own vehicle and left the scene. Individuals in the area ran for cover and hid during the shooting. Over fifty spent shell casings were subsequently recovered from the crime scene, many of which were located on the nearby Queen Mary Highway. After the shooting episode, the Explorer collided with two vehicles and came to rest nearby. Bullet holes were discovered in the windshield, on the driver side, and at the rear of the Explorer. Trial testimony established that Thomas was not authorized to possess a firearm and had previously been convicted of a felony offense.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alphonso G. Andrews, Jr.
Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Conspiracy to Possess with the intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Stephen Bernier, 53, of St. Croix, was sentenced today for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Bernier to 36 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment and perform 300 hours of community service.
On November 3, 2017, Bernier pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana. According to documents filed in court, between January 10, 2016 and March 8, 2017, Bernier and other co-conspirators possessed and distributed approximately 140 kilograms of marijuana through the United States Postal Service.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Dominican Republic Man Sentenced to 24 Months for Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Cristian Lopez-Moncion, 36, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced today for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Lopez-Moncion to 24 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment.
On June 14, 2017, Lopez-Moncion pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. According to documents filed in court, on August 6, 2016, the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) responded to a report of shots fired on Main Street in St. Thomas. The investigation revealed that Lopez-Moncion was in possession of a Glock 9 mm firearm. The firearm was recovered and analyzed. A forensic examination determined that the firearm had been modified to operate in a fully automatic capacity. Lopez-Moncion is not a legal resident of the United States and is not licensed to possess a firearm in the Virgin Islands.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the VIPD. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery of the Gems and Gold Corner Jewelry StoreRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Devon Davis, 27, of St. Thomas, pleaded guilty today in District Court to one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert, announced. Davis was the last of seven men charged with the Hobbs Act robbery of the Gems and Gold Corner jewelry store on St. Thomas.
Davis faces up to 20 years in prison on the conspiracy count. Judge Curtis V. Gomez remanded Davis into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending his sentencing on July 5, 2018.
On November 16, 2017, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment, resulting from an investigation into the Hobbs Act robbery of Gems and Gold Corner jewelry store on St. Thomas on September 16, 2013. According to the indictment, Davis was a member of the robbery crew that conspired to rob the store. Davis’ co-conspirators entered the store and brandished a handgun to threaten the storeowner before fleeing with merchandise. Davis drove the getaway vehicle.
Other members of the conspiracy, Ron Delano Kuntz, 42, KeonWilson, 22, Shawn McIntosh, 24, Shaquille Correa, 22, Jarmaine Ayala, 36, and Wahilli James, 21, have all been convicted and remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending their sentencings in May 2018.
This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna A. Vlasova and Kim L. Chisholm.
Man Pleads Guilty to Arson and Malicious Damage and Destruction to Federal Property Charges Related to Fires at Three U.S. Government FacilitiesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Spencer Wayne Allen, 26, pleaded guilty today in District Court to one count of arson and two counts of malicious damage and destruction to federal property, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on February 28, 2017, Allen maliciously damaged the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center in the Nisky Shopping Center on St. Thomas by means of fire. As a result of the fire, the U.S. Navy and Marine Recruitment Center was completely destroyed. Also on February 28, 2017, Allen damaged by fire two other properties belonging to the United States, the Ron De Lugo Federal Building and United States Courthouse, and the U.S. Coast Guard Station.
Sentencing for Allen is scheduled for June 28, 2018. Allen faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison on the arson count, and up to 10 years in prison on each of the two destruction of federal property counts.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency, Virgin Islands Police Department, Virgin Islands Port Authority, Virgin Islands Fire Service, and the Virginia Beach Fire Department Fire Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith J. Edwards and Everard E. Potter.
St. Thomas Men arrested for Possession of a Firearm by Convicted FelonsRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Rehelio Trant, 39, and Gamba Potter, 32, both of St. Thomas, made their initial appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in an indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Gretchen C. F. Shappert announced today. Trant and Potter were detained pending further proceedings. Both are scheduled to be arraigned on Friday.
According to the indictment, on September 8, 2017, the Virgin Islands Police Department received a report from two individuals that Trant and Potter were in possession of firearms that they pointed at them during a robbery. The investigation revealed that Trant was previously convicted in the District Court of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and Potter was previously convicted in the Superior Court of unauthorized possession of a firearm. Neither Trant nor Potter are licensed in the district of the Virgin Islands to possess a firearm.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the VIPD. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Man arrested for Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Rehelio Trant, 39, of St. Thomas, made his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in an indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, United States Attorney Gretchen C. F. Shappert announced. Trant was detained pending further proceedings.
According to the indictment, on October 16, 2017, the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) received a report from an individual that Trant brandished a firearm after a verbal confrontation with the individual. The indictment further states that Trant was previously convicted in District Court of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and that he is not licensed in the Virgin Islands to possess a firearm.
Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the VIPD. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Former St. John Resident Arrested for Mail FraudRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Shaquin Brodie, 20, a former resident of St. John, appeared for arraignment today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being arrested in Columbus, Ohio, on January 16, 2018, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert announced. Brodie was arrested pursuant to an indictment and arrest warrant issued on January 11, 2018, by the District Court of the Virgin Islands charging him with mail fraud.
According to the indictment, between February 2016 and March 2017, Brodie filed in excess of 200 fraudulent insurance claims with the United States Postal Service for items he represented to be lost, damaged or stolen. The claims were valued in excess of $47,000.
If convicted, Brodie faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Area Field Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Two Men Arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled SubstanceRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Tommy Ramirez, 29, of the Dominican Republic and Ramon Clavel, 55, of Haiti, were arrested Monday on a criminal complaint charging them with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Ramirez and Clavel made their initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller and were detained pending further proceedings.
According to the complaint, on Monday, Ramirez and Clavel presented themselves at the post office to claim a package that contained one kilogram of cocaine, a controlled substance.
If convicted of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, Ramirez and Clavel face a minimum sentence of five years and a fine of $250,000.00.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that a complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilty. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Department of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Betel Paulino Sentenced in Connection with Armed Robbery of McDonald’s Restaurant in Lockhart Shopping CenterRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Betel Paulino, 18, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced Thursday for his role in the armed robbery of the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Paulino to 90 months in prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, and 84 months for discharge of a firearm during a federal crime of violence. Judge Gomez also sentenced Paulino to five years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay a $200 special assessment and perform 400 hours of community service.
On July 27, 2017, Paulino pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and discharge of a firearm during a federal crime of violence. According to documents filed in court, on March 25, 2017, members of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) responded to reports of a robbery at the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center. After an exchange of gunfire, the armed individuals inside the McDonald’s restaurant surrendered to law enforcement and were taken into custody. Paulino was arrested after the investigation revealed that he was involved in the planning, execution, and attempted cover-up of the robbery.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and VIPD. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte and former Criminal Chief Christian A. Fisanick.
Cape Air Employee Pleads Guilty to Smuggling Cocaine through Cyril E. King AirportRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Wayne Fahie, 31, of St. Thomas, pleaded guilty today in District Court to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on July 30, 2017, Fahie, and his co-defendant Roy Hodge, III, 41, also of St. Thomas, attempted to smuggle four kilograms of cocaine through the Cyril E. King airport. Fahie, who is a Cape Air employee, used his security clearance to access the men’s restroom in the departure lounge of the airport where he met Hodge and exchanged the cocaine. The plea agreement further states that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers conducting surveillance observed Hodge enter the men’s room for approximately 33 minutes. Simultaneously, the CBP officers observed Fahie enter and exit the men’s room three times, each time with a bulge in his pants pockets. According to the plea agreement, CBP K-9 “Sherpa” alerted to the presence of cocaine in Fahie’s pants pocket, and a search of Hodge’s cell phone revealed multiple text messages detailing the smuggling scheme. Hodge pleaded guilty conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine on February 1, 2018.
Sentencing for Fahie and Hodge is scheduled for June 7, 2018. Fahie and Hodge each face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, and Customs and Border Protection, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Delia L. Smith.
South Carolina Man Arraigned on Charge of Mailing Firearms to St. ThomasRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Steven Baxter, 31, of South Carolina, was arraigned Wednesday in District Court on the charge of sending firearms through the mail, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Baxter, who was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 7, 2017, was extradited from South Carolina based on an arrest warrant issued by the District Court the same day. U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller ordered Baxter detained pending further proceedings.
According to the indictment, on or about March 29, 2017, Baxter caused two firearms to be shipped from South Carolina to a third person in St. Thomas, knowing that the third person was not a licensed firearms dealer. If convicted, Baxter faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
United States Attorney Shappert emphasized that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Junior Feliz Sentenced in Connection with Armed Robbery of McDonald’s Restaurant in Lockhart Shopping CenterRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Junior Feliz, 22, of the Dominican Republic, was sentenced today for his role in the armed robbery of the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Feliz to 36 months in prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery. Judge Gomez also sentenced Feliz to three years of supervised release, ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment, and perform 300 hours of community service.
On June 6, 2017, Feliz pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery. According to documents filed in court, on March 25, 2017, members of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) responded to reports of a robbery at the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center. After an exchange of gunfire, the armed individuals inside the McDonald’s restaurant surrendered to law enforcement and were taken into custody. Feliz was arrested after the investigation revealed that he was the driver of the getaway vehicle and was involved in the planning, execution, and attempted cover-up of the robbery.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and VIPD. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte and former Criminal Chief Christian A. Fisanick.
Federal Jury Convicts Three Men of Hobbs Act Robbery and Related Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – After a two-day trial, yesterday a federal jury found Ron Delano Kuntz, 42, Keon Wilson, 22, and Shawn McIntosh, 24, guilty of Hobbs Act Robbery, Conspiracy to Commit Hobbs Act Robbery, and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert, announced.
Kuntz, Wilson, and McIntosh each face up to 20 years for the Hobbs Act robbery and conspiracy charges and an additional consecutive mandatory minimum sentence of seven years for the brandishing of a firearm charge.
According to the evidence presented at trial, Kuntz, Wilson, and McIntosh were members of a group that conspired to rob Gems and Gold Corner Jewelry store on St. Thomas on September 16, 2013. Wilson and McIntosh entered the store and Wilson brandished a firearm before fleeing the store with merchandise. The evidence presented at trial also showed that Kuntz purchased large hats to disguise those who went into the jewelry store, and Kuntz acted as a lookout during the robbery while in communication with other members of the conspiracy.
Three other members of the conspiracy, Shaquille Correa, 22, Jarmaine Ayala, 36, and Wahilli James, 21, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and related firearm offenses. A seventh defendant is pending trial. The six convicted defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing in May 2018.
This case was by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna A. Vlasova and Kim L. Chisholm.
St. Thomas Man Arrested on Five Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Levi Registe, 26, of St. Thomas, was arrested today on an indictment charging him with two federal firearms offenses and three territorial firearms offenses, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Registe made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on the federal charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, and the territorial charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of body armor by a person convicted of a crime of violence. He was detained pending a detention hearing on January 25, 2018.
According to the indictment, on December 16, 2017, Registe possessed a SKS rifle, a shotgun, and a bulletproof vest. The indictment further states that Registe was previously convicted in the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands for assault in the first degree, and is not licensed to possess any of the firearms in the Virgin Islands.
Under federal law, possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon carries a sentence of not more than 10 years and a $250,000 fine. Under territorial law, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon carries a minimum sentence of 20 years and a $50,000 fine; possession of an unlicensed firearm carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and a minimum fine of $10,000, and possession of body armor by a person convicted of a crime of violence carries a maximum sentence of three years.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Croix Woman Charged with Federal Program Theft and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Kira Lee Encarnacion, 40, of St. Croix, was arraigned today in District Court on a criminal indictment charging her with federal program theft and money laundering, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to the indictment, Encarnacion was employed as a bookkeeper by the Women’s Coalition of St. Croix (WCSC), a non-profit organization that provides assistance and advocacy to women, children and men who are survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and other crimes. The indictment alleges that as part of her duties, Encarnacion issued payments to the organization’s vendors using an accounting software program. According to the indictment, Encarnacion circumvented the WCSC’s internal financial controls and fraudulently caused numerous checks to be issued to her. She then deposited the checks into an off-island bank account using a "Mobile Deposit" application.
If convicted of federal program theft, Encarnacion faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of money laundering, she faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $500,000 fine. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tasheika Hinson.
The public is reminded that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Two Men Sentenced in Connection with McDonald’s Restaurant Armed Robbery in Lockhart Shopping CenterRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Helwood Paris, 20, of Puerto Rico, and Hanselo Recio, 18, of the Dominican Republic, were sentenced yesterday for their roles in the armed robbery of the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Paris to 87months in prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, and 87 months for robbery in the first degree. He sentenced Recio to 51 months in prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery and 108 months for discharge of a firearm during a federal crime of violence. Judge Gomez also sentenced Paris to three years of supervised release and Recio to five years of supervised release. He ordered Paris to serve his sentence concurrently and Recio to serve his consecutively. Judge Gomez also ordered both men to pay a $100 special assessment, and perform 400 hours of community service.
According to documents filed in court, on March 25, 2017, members of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) responded to reports of a robbery at the McDonald’s restaurant in Lockhart Shopping Center. After an exchange of gunfire, Recio, who was inside the restaurant, surrendered and was taken into custody. Paris was arrested after the investigation revealed that he was involved in the planning, execution and attempted cover-up of the robbery.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, and the VIPD. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte and former Criminal Chief Christian A. Fisanick.
Attorney General Jeff Sessions Appoints Gretchen Shappert as Interim United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI -- Attorney General Jeff Sessions today announced the appointment of Gretchen C.F. Shappert as Interim United States Attorney pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 546, which provides that "the Attorney General may appoint a United States Attorney for the district in which the office of United States Attorney is vacant." This appointment will take effect on January 5, 2018.
"Gretchen Shappert has served this Department well for more than 25 years," said Attorney General Sessions. "For five of those years, she led federal prosecutions in Western North Carolina as United States Attorney. I am confident that, with this extensive experience, she will be an excellent leader as Interim U.S. Attorney for the Virgin Islands."
Gretchen C.F. Shappert has served as the Assistant Director for the Indian, Violent and Cyber Crime Staff in the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA), since 2010. Prior to joining EOUSA, Ms. Shappert served as the United States Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina from 2004-2009 and as an Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) from 1990-2004. As the United States Attorney and as an AUSA, Ms. Shappert prosecuted a wide range of criminal defendants including outlaw motorcycle gangs and violent drug organizations. Ms. Shappert also served as an Assistant District Attorney, an Assistant Public Defender, and in private practice prior to her federal service. She received her B.A. from Duke University in 1977 and her J.D. from Washington & Lee University School of Law in 1980.
Attorney General Sessions thanked Joycelyn Hewlett for stepping up to lead the office as Acting United States Attorney. Hewlett will now resume her role as First Assistant United States Attorney.
Three More Men Arrested on Hobbs Act Robbery and Related Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Devon Davis, 27, Keon Wilson, 22, and Shawn McIntosh, 24, have been arrested after being charged by a superseding indictment with Hobbs Act robbery, conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, and brandishing a firearm during a federal crime of violence, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. At a hearing today in District Court, Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller ordered Wilson detained pending trial. McIntosh was detained on November 22, 2017, and Davis was released on conditions.
Davis, Wilson, and McIntosh, along with Shaquille Correa, 22, Jarmaine Ayala, 36, Wahilli James, 21, and Ron Delano Kuntz, 42, are charged in a conspiracy to rob Gems and Gold Corner Jewelry Store on St. Thomas.
According to the superseding indictment, on September 16, 2013, the seven men conspired with each other and other unidentified co-conspirators to rob the store, brandished weapons to threaten and intimidate store employees, and then fled the store with merchandise.
If convicted, each of the seven men face up to 20 years in prison on the Hobbs Act robbery charge, plus a mandatory seven-year consecutive sentence for the brandishing a firearm charge.
This case is being investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anna A. Vlasova and Kim L. Chisholm.
Acting United States Attorney Hewlett reminds the public that an indictment is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Terminix Companies Sentenced for Applying Restricted-Use Pesticide to Residences in the U.S. Virgin IslandsRead the Press Release
Terminix International Company LP (TERMINIX LP) and U.S. Virgin Islands operation Terminix International USVI LLC (TERMINIX, USVI) were sentenced today for violations of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act in the U.S. Virgin Islands, announced the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Virgin Islands pest control company illegally applied fumigants containing methyl bromide in multiple residential locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, including the condominium resort complex in St. John where a family of four fell seriously ill in March 2015 after the unit below them was fumigated. According to the plea recommendation, TERMINIX LP and TERMINIX, USVI are to pay a total of $9.2 million in criminal fines, community service, and restitution payments. Under the agreed recommendation, TERMINIX, USVI will pay $4 million in fines and $1 million in restitution to the EPA for response and clean-up costs at the St. John resort. TERMINIX LP will pay a fine of $4 million and will perform community service related to training commercial pesticide applicators in fumigation practices and a separate health services training program.
“The sentences in this case reflect the serious nature of the defendants’ illegal actions and the unacceptable consequences of those actions,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “This case should serve as a stark reminder that pesticides must be applied as intended and that those who ignore laws that protect public health will be held accountable by EPA and our law enforcement partners.”
“The tragic incident at issue in this case shows the extreme danger posed by the improper use of toxic pesticides,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jeffrey H. Wood of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Businesses using these products must take appropriate cautions to safeguard the public, or else the consequences can be devastating. We trust that the result in this case shows how imperative it is that users of these products take the time to review, understand, and employ appropriate techniques and uses.”
“This case demonstrates how critical it is to comply with environmental laws and regulations,” said Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett for the District of the Virgin Islands. “An entire family suffered horrendous and life-altering injuries. We will continue to aggressively enforce environmental laws to help prevent something like this from ever happening again.”
In 1984, the EPA banned the indoor use of methyl bromide products. The few remaining uses are severely restricted and largely limited to commodity applications for quarantine and pre-shipment purposes. Pesticides containing methyl bromide in the U.S. are restricted-use due to their acute toxicity, meaning that they may only be applied by a certified applicator. Health effects of acute exposure to methyl bromide are serious and include central nervous system and respiratory system damage. Pesticides can be very toxic and it is critically important that they be used only as approved by EPA.
According to the information filed in federal court in the U.S. District Court of the Virgin Islands, the defendants knowingly applied restricted-use fumigants at the Sirenusa resort in St. John for the purpose of exterminating household pests on or about October 20, 2014, and on or about March 18, 2015. The companies were also charged with applying the restricted-use pesticide in 12 residential units in St. Croix and one additional unit in St. Thomas between September 2012 and February 2015.
According to the factual basis of the plea agreement, TERMINIX, USVI provided pest control services in the Virgin Islands including fumigation treatments for Powder Post Beetles, a common problem in the islands. These fumigation treatments were referred to as “tape and seal” jobs, meaning that the affected area was to be sealed off from the rest of the structure with plastic sheeting and tape prior to the introduction of the fumigant. Customers were generally told that after a treatment, persons could not enter the building for a two- to three-day period.
On or about March 18, 2015, two employees of TERMINIX, USVI, performed a fumigation pesticide treatment at the lower rental unit of Building J at Sirenusa in St. John. The upper unit in Building J was occupied by a Delaware family of four. Via various means, methyl bromide from the lower unit migrated to the upper unit of Building J, causing serious injury to and hospitalization of the entire family.
EPA regional staff responded immediately to the incident in St. John, securing the scene, performing testing, and addressing the contamination. Within days, the EPA sent out a pesticide use warning to pesticides applicators in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, followed by a broader pesticide notice to regulators in all states, the British Virgin Islands, and to other Caribbean and Latin American countries.
After the government began its investigation, TERMINIX LP voluntarily ceased its use of methyl bromide in the U.S. and in U.S. territories. The government has notified the district court that the defendants have made full restitution to the Esmond family. The family is satisfied with the criminal resolution and has asked that their privacy be respected.
The case was investigated by EPA Criminal Investigation Division working cooperatively with the Virgins Islands government and, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
Senior Litigation Counsel Howard P. Stewart of the Department of Justice, Environmental Crimes Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim L. Chisholm of the District of the Virgin Islands are prosecuting the case with assistance of Patricia Hick, EPA Region II Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel.
Two Men Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Calvin Benjamin, 50, of St. Thomas and Stephen Bernier, 53 of St. Croix have pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, Benjamin and Bernier admitted that from January 10, 2016 to March 8, 2017, they conspired with others to possess and distribute approximately 140 kilograms of marijuana through the United States Postal Service
Benjamin and Bernier each face a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for March 1, 2018 for Benjamin and March 8, 2018 for Bernier.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is now able to receive calls via its usual telephone number on St. Thomas: (340) 774-5757Read the Press Release
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is now able to receive calls via its usual telephone number on St. Thomas: (340) 774-5757. Until further notice, please use this number to call the St. Croix office as well.
U.S. Attorney’s Office and V.I. Attorney General’s Office Establish Task Force to Combat Disaster Fraud and Urge Public to Report Suspected FraudRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – The U.S. Attorney’s Office announces the formation of a task force comprised of local and federal agencies to combat illegal activity related to Hurricanes Irma and Maria. Acting U.S. Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett urges residents and businesses to immediately report suspected fraudulent activity related to recovery and clean-up operations, fake charities claiming to be providing relief for victims, individuals submitting false claims for disaster relief, and any other disaster fraud-related activity.
While compassion, assistance, and solidarity are generally prevalent in the aftermath of natural disasters, unscrupulous individuals and organizations also use these tragic events to take advantage of those in need. In the wake of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, the U.S. Department of Justice National Center for Disaster Fraud NCDF has already received more than 400 complaints. Examples of illegal activity being reported to the NCDF and law enforcement include:
• Impersonation of federal law enforcement officials;
• Identity theft;
• Fraudulent submission of claims to insurance companies and the federal government;
• Fraudulent activity related to solicitations for donations and charitable giving;
• Fraudulent activity related to individuals and organizations promising high investment returns from profits from recovery and cleanup efforts;
• Price gouging;
• Theft, looting, and other violent crime.
Members of the public who suspect fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, or believe they have been the victim of fraud from a person or organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of disaster victims, should contact the National Disaster Fraud Hotline toll free at (866) 720-5721. The telephone line is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also fax information to the Center at (225) 334-4707, or email it to [email protected]. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is unable to receive incoming calls at its usual telephone numbers at this time. Please use the following temporary number to call the St. Thomas or St. Croix office: (703) 285-0852.
“Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters such as hurricanes for their own gain,” Hewlett said. “We will aggressively investigate and prosecute anyone who commits disaster fraud, so if you are aware of fraud, please call the National Disaster Fraud Hotline.”
“Whether it is price gouging on life sustaining commodities, fraudulent activity involving government vendors, home contractors, or insurance fraud, the Attorney General’s Office stands ready to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the other task force members to combat disaster fraud in the Territory,” said Virgin Islands Attorney General Claude Earl Walker.
The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud to investigate, prosecute, and deter fraud in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when billions of dollars in federal disaster relief poured into the Gulf Coast region. Its mission has expanded to include suspected fraud from any natural or manmade disaster. More than 30 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the National Center for Disaster Fraud, which allows the center to act as a centralized clearinghouse of information related to disaster relief fraud.
Members of the public are reminded to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of disaster victims. Solicitations can originate from e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings and telephone calls, and similar methods. Learn more about the NCDF at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud. Tips for the public on how to avoid being victimized of fraud are at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/tips-avoiding-fraudulent-charitable-contribution-schemes.
Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Dasha Graham, 22, of St. Croix, pleaded guilty Wednesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon, Jr., to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. Sentencing is scheduled for December 29, 2017.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on March 10, 2017, Graham and a co-defendant attempted to enter the secure parking lot at the District Court on St. Croix to drop off paperwork. Graham was driving the vehicle. The security officer denied entrance and instructed Graham to park in the visitor lot. Graham refused, creating a disturbance and causing a special agent to approach his car. The agent smelled a strong odor of marijuana, and Graham admitted that there was marijuana in the car. A search of the car yielded Ziploc bags containing 10 phials of marijuana. When interviewed, Graham stated that the marijuana was his and that he had it for sale. The amount of marijuana was less than 100 grams.
Graham faces a sentence of not more than five years in prison and a fine of not more than $250,000.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Federal Protective Service and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Atlanta Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Smuggle Cocaine through Cyril E. King AirportRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Makimba Barry, 41, of Atlanta, Ga., pleaded guilty today before District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute not less than 50 and not more than 150 kilograms of cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. Sentencing is scheduled for January 4, 2018.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, Barry was a member of a drug trafficking organization from 2011 through 2016. During the course of the conspiracy, Barry was responsible for 32 shipments of more than 236 kilograms of cocaine from St. Thomas to Florida. On each smuggling operation, Barry traveled from Miami to St. Thomas where he would pick up 10 or more kilograms of cocaine. The following day, Barry would deliver the cocaine and partial payment to Neal Chesterfield, then immediately return to Florida. Chesterfield, a law enforcement officer, would then smuggle the cocaine through the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas using his work credentials to bypass United States Customs and TSA. Chesterfield, who was paid $2,750 per kilogram of cocaine, was arrested on September 3, 2016 minutes before boarding a Spirit Airlines flight to Ft. Lauderdale. In his possession was approximately 22 kilograms of cocaine and over $26,000 in cash that he had received as payment from Barry.
Barry faces a sentence of not less than 10 years in prison and not more than life, and a fine of up to $10 million. Barry remains detained pending sentencing.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Delia Smith.
Jury Convicts St. Croix Man of Production of Child Pornography and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – On August 25, 2017, after a five-day trial, a federal jury on St. Croix convicted Gilroy Derrick Elcock, 45, of six counts of production of child pornography, two counts of aggravated rape first degree, and one count of possession of child pornography, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced.
Production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years. Possession of child pornography carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and aggravated rape first-degree carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years to life imprisonment. Elcock remains in custody pending sentencing. No sentencing date has been set.
Evidence presented at trial established that Elcock met the mother of J.S. and J.J.S. in October 2013. The mother and Elcock started dating, and in January 2014, Elcock started living with the mother and two children. Elcock started having sexual relations with J.S.,16, and J.J.S.,12, and used his cell phone to record the sexual encounters. J.J.S. asked Elcock to stop, but he continued. The mother spoke to J.J.S., who showed her mother Facebook messages between her and Elcock. The messages were sexual in nature, and when the mother saw the messages, she called the police. The subsequent investigation, including a search of Elcock’s cell phone, yielded seven videos depicting him engaged in sexual acts with J.S. and J.J.S.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Man Arrested for Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Kenneth James, 51, of Dominica, made his initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon after being charged in a criminal complaint with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. James was detained pending preliminary and detention hearings set for August 17, 2017.
According to the complaint, on August 15, 2017, James attempted to sell to an individual approximately 12 kilograms of a white powdery substance that tested positive for cocaine.
Conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute in excess of five kilograms of cocaine carries a sentence of not less than 10 years in prison or more than life and a $10,000,000 fine.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Acting United States Attorney Hewlett reminds the public that a complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
St. Thomas Man Sentenced to 12 Months and a Day in Prison for Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Jashawn Bailey, 30, of St. Thomas, was sentenced today to 12 months and a day in prison for possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez also sentenced Bailey to serve three years of supervised release, pay a $100 special assessment, and perform 350 hours of community service.
On April 3, 2017, Bailey pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. According to the plea agreement, on December 14, 2016, Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) officers, while processing a crime scene, discovered a .45 Taurus firearm with an obliterated serial number wrapped in a T-shirt and hat. The investigation revealed that those items belonged to Bailey. Further, the firearm was deemed to be operable and had traveled in interstate commerce. Bailey does not possess a license for the firearm in the Virgin Islands.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the VIPD. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Thomas Man Detained after Arrest for Possession with Intent to Distribute MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Caheem Johnson, 22, of St. Thomas, was detained today pending further proceedings after his arrest Saturday for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, Acting United States Attorney, Joycelyn Hewlett announced. Johnson made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on Sunday after being charged in a criminal complaint.
According to the criminal complaint, on Saturday at the Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection K-9 detected narcotics in Johnson’s carry-on luggage. CBP officers examined the contents of the luggage, which revealed six sealed bags containing a green leafy substance. CBP officers seized and field tested the green leafy substance and determined it to be approximately 2.2 kilograms of marijuana.
If convicted, Johnson faces a maximum sentence of not more than five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and three years of supervised release.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna A. Vlasova.
Acting United States Attorney Hewlett reminds the public that a criminal complaint is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Former VICARE Finance Director Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Theft of Federal Program FundsRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced Celeste P. Bermudez, 42, of Methuen, Massachusetts, today to 30 months in prison and three years of supervised release for theft of federal program funds, Acting United States Attorney Joycelyn Hewlett announced. Gomez also ordered Bermudez to serve a concurrent sentence of 12 months in prison for making and subscribing a false tax return, and pay the following restitution: $321,961.29 to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), $137,983.41 to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and $50,592 to the Virgin Islands Bureau of Internal Revenue. Bermudez also has to pay a $100 special assessment and perform 350 hours of community service.
On April 3, 2017, Bermudez pleaded guilty to theft of federal program funds and making and subscribing a false income tax return. According to the plea agreement, Bermudez was the finance director of the Virgin Islands Community AIDS Resource & Education, Inc. (VICARE), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting HIV-AIDS education and support services to individuals living with HIV-AIDS. In 2011, HUD approved approximately $1.3 million in grant funds to VICARE. During the period July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2014, HHS Centers for Disease Control and Prevention awarded VICARE approximately $627,365 in grant funds. Bermudez admitted to embezzling more than $5,000 of the grant funds during the period January 2012 through December 2013. Bermudez also admitted to making and subscribing a false 2011 income tax return, in that Bermudez failed to report approximately $135,503.61 in 2011 income from VICARE.
The case was investigated by HUD Office of Inspector General, HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kim L. Chisholm and Meredith Edwards.