District of the Virgin Islands
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Man Pleads Guilty to Impersonating Federal Officer and BlackmailRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- George W. Lewis, Jr., 50, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St.Thomas to one count of impersonating a federal officer and one count of blackmail, United States
Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.According to court records, beginning in October 2014, Lewis befriended an undocumented immigrant and claimed to be an immigration agent employed by the Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). Defendant then manipulated the undocumented immigrant into a sexual relationship under the threat that he would have the undocumented immigrant deported from the United States.
District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez ordered Lewis, who was released on bond, to surrender to the U.S. Marshals Service on January 4, 2016. Sentencing is scheduled for March 10, 2016.
Angel M. Melendez, Special Agent in charge of HSI in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands said: “Regrettably, schemes like this involving the impersonation of federal officers potentially undermine the public's confidence in their government and law enforcement. HSI will continue to aggressively pursue those who exploit innocent individuals. Having people come forward to report such schemes is crucial to deterring this type of fraud and preventing others from becoming victims.”
David D’Amato, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Office of Professional Responsibility, Southeast Region, said: “This prosecution and plea represents the collaborative effort of the ICE Office of Professional Responsibility and Homeland Security Investigations, and sends a strong message that criminal acts such as those perpetrated by Mr. Lewis will be vigorously pursued. Taking advantage of foreign nationals in the immigration system for any reason will not be tolerated, and the motive of blackmail for personal gain is especially egregious.”
The case was investigated by HSI and OPR. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Wednesday, October 28, 2015, Michael A. Lewis, 36, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for March 3, 2016.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on June 23, 2015, Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) Officers attempted to conduct a field interview with Lewis who took off running from the officers. As Lewis was running from VIPD officers, a butt of a firearm was seen protruding from his front right pants’ pocket. Lewis was later apprehended in a residence where he discarded three firearms. VIPD officers recovered the firearms. Lewis is a convicted felon and not authorized to possess a firearm. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is the result of a joint investigation 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.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Conspiracy ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Monday, October 26, 2015, Tequan Joseph, 23, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to cons piracy to ship f irearms with obliterated serial numbers, unlawful transportation of those firearms, and to a Middle District of Florida charge of false statement n connection with purchase of a firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for February 25, 2016.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, between August 10, 2013, and October 7, 2013, Joseph conspired with other individuals to unlawfully purchase firearms and mail those firearms with obliterated serial numbers from Jacksonville, Florida, to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. A total of six firearms were shipped and recovered. Joseph is not a federal licensed firearms dealer and is not authorized to possess those firearms in the U.S. Virgin Islands. He faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Additionally, Joseph faces a maximum of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine for the Middle District of Florida firearms charge.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Two Men Sentenced to Prison for Smuggling Illegal Immigrants into USVIRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez on Monday sentenced Kenrick Christopher, 48, of Grenada, to 23 months in prison, and Jeard Shillingford, 33, of Dominica, to 18 months in prison for encouraging and inducing illegal immigrants to enter the United States for commercial or financial gain, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Gomez also sentenced both men to serve three years of supervised release.
On June 24, 2015, Christopher and Shillingford pleaded guilty to encouraging and inducing illegal immigrants to enter the United States for commercial or financial gain. As part of their pleas, Christopher and Shillingford admitted to operating a sailing vessel containing 61 Haitian nationals seeking to enter the United States illegally, and that they did so for commercial or financial gain knowing that their actions were unlawful. The United States Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection intercepted the vessel off the coast of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands on June 10, 2015.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David White.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Tashimo Scatliffe, 33, pleaded guilty Monday in District Court on St. Thomas to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Scatliffe has been detained since he was indicted in August.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on February 2, 2015, Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) officers responded to the Paul M. Pearson Housing Community after receiving a complaint from Building 7 regarding a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival, officers observed Scatliffe leaving Building 7, and were notified that Scatliffe had a firearm. Further investigation by the VIPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) resulted in the retrieval of a firearm and casing in the area, a determination that the casing was fired from the firearm, and the finding of Scatliffe’s DNA on the firearm. Prior to February 2, 2015, Scatliffe was convicted in the Superior Court of firstdegree assault-larceny.
Scatliffe faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. His sentencing is scheduled for February 18, 2016.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by ATF and the VIPD. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Mexican National Sentenced to 25 Months in Prison for Reentry After DeportationRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez today sentenced Carlos Salvador Fernandez, 47, to 25 months in prison and three years of supervised release for reentering the United States after having been deported, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. On June 10, 2015, Fernandez pleaded guilty to reentry after deportation.
Court records show that on April 20, 2015, Fernandez presented himself for inspection at the Cyril E. King International Airport on St. Thomas prior to boarding a flight to Washington, D.C. When questioned, Fernandez claimed to be a United States permanent resident. Fernandez was referred for secondary inspection at which time he admitted that he was previously deported from the United States in February, 2006. The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security did not give permission for him to reenter the United States.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nelson L. Jones.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Transmission of Threat to InjureRead the Press Release
– Kamoui Francis, 25, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St. Croix to
Transmission of Threat to Injure, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on January 28, 2014, a testifying witness in
a murder case in the Superior Court on St. Croix received two threatening messages. The threats were
sent from a mobile device to a Facebook account, and warned that if any of the defendants were found
guilty, the witness and members of the witness’ family would be killed. As part of the investigation of
the case, on February 5, 2014, Bureau of Corrections officers searched Francis’ cell at Golden Grove
Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix. Francis was the sole occupant of his cell. During the search,
Francis was found in possession of the cellphone from which the threats were made.
Francis faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A sentencing date
has been set for February 10, 2015.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Bureau
of Corrections. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Prison ContrabandRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Rodney Stanley, 30, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St. Croix to one count of possession of prison contraband, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
As part of his plea, Stanley admitted that on November 15, 2012, officers of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections (BOC) found a cellular telephone hidden in a mattress inside a cell solely occupied by Stanley at the Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix. Stanley was an inmate at the facility at the time. Cellular telephones are prohibited contraband in correctional facilities because they are known to be used by prisoners to intimidate witnesses, orchestrate narcotics transactions, and facilitate other criminal activity, including murders.
Stanley is facing a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine. A date for sentencing has not been set.
This case was investigated by the BOC and United States Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rami S. Badawy.
Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Prison ContrabandRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Delroy Woods, 24, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St. Croix to one count of possession of prison contraband, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
As part of his plea, Woods admitted that on May 7, 2013, officers of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections (BOC) found a shank or homemade knife hidden in a mattress inside a cell solely occupied by Woods at the Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix. Woods was an inmate at the facility at the time.
Woods is facing a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A date for sentencing has not been set.This case was investigated by the BOC and United States Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rami S. Badawy.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to Prison for Possession of Prison ContrabandRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – District Court Chief Judge Wilma A. Lewis on Wednesday sentenced Shevron Percival, 25, of St. Croix, to four months in prison and one year of supervised release for Possession of Prison Contraband, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Lewis also ordered Percival to pay a $500 fine.
On May 7, 2015, Percival pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of Prison Contraband. As part of his plea, Percival admitted that he possessed a cellular telephone that was found in his basketball shorts while he was an inmate at the Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix. Cellular telephones are prohibited contraband in correctional facilities because they are known to be used by prisoners to intimidate witnesses, orchestrate narcotics transactions, and facilitate other criminal activity, including murders.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections and the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rami S. Badawy.
U.S. Attorney Sharpe Commends VI for Receiving Multiple GrantsRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe today commended the Virgin Islands Government for receiving several additional grants from the U.S. Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs. Five grants totaling over $2 million were awarded on September 23, 2015. Sharpe said the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office are committed to improving the effectiveness and efficiency of law enforcement by providing resources and supporting programs that strengthen the community.
The largest of the five grants awarded is a $1.123 million grant to the Law Enforcement Planning Commission. The grants are:
The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant for $610,774 was awarded to the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Planning Commission. The grant will assist in improving the operational effectiveness of law enforcement using evidence-based and data driven efforts in reducing crime, improve investigations and prosecutions efforts for drug and violent crime and increase funding assistance to communities and neighborhoods to prevent delinquency and reduce juvenile crime.
The VOCA Victim Assistance Formula Grant for $1,123,431 was awarded to the Law Enforcement Planning Commission to provide competitively awarded grants to state and local community-based organizations that provide direct services to crime victims.
The Paul Coverdell Forensic Science Grant for $63,705 was awarded to the Virgin Islands Department of Justice to assist VIDOJ in improving the quality, quantity and timeliness of forensic science in the territory.
The Victim Assistance Discretionary Grant Training Program for $57,292 was awarded to the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Planning Commission to support training and technical assistance for victim grantees and others who work with crime victims.
The Victim Compensation Formula Grant for $163,000 was awarded to the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services on St. Croix to enhance state victim compensation payments to eligible crime victims.
Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority signs legal agreement with EPA and U.S. Department of Justice to reduce air pollution at two power plantsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Under an agreement announced today by the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency, the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (VIWAPA) will come into compliance with the federal Clean Air Act at its Krum Bay facility on St. Thomas and Cruz Bay facility on St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands. The settlement resolves numerous violations of the Clean Air Act, including VIWAPA’s failure to properly operate pollution control equipment to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter that can cause serious respiratory illness. These pollutants are linked to health problems, including asthma, lung and heart disease. VIWAPA will spend approximately $12.2 million to comply with the agreement’s requirements. VIWAPA will also pay a $1.3 million penalty.
Separate from the settlement, VIWAPA has been in the process of converting several of its oil-fired turbines at the St. Thomas facility to be capable of burning liquefied petroleum gas or liquefied natural gas. The settlement requires that at least 85 percent of the power VIWAPA generates from the converted units be from burning liquefied petroleum gas or liquefied natural gas at the converted units and renewable sources. The agreement will result in a reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions by approximately 1,300 tons per year and particulate matter emissions by approximately 185 tons per year. In addition, the conversion to LPG or LNG will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, from the St. Thomas facility by approximately 66,000 tons per year and sulfur dioxide by approximately 200 tons per year.
“Today’s settlement marks another milestone in our ongoing efforts to enforce the Clean Air Act and reduce air pollution from power plants,” said Assistant Attorney General John C. Cruden for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This settlement will eliminate thousands of tons of harmful air pollution each year, significantly improving air quality in the Virgin Islands.”
“This settlement will drastically reduce the amount of air pollution in the Virgin Islands and bring the St. Thomas power plant, one of the most significant sources of air pollution in the U.S. Virgin Islands, into compliance with the Clean Air Act,” said Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck for EPA.
Under the Clean Air Act, large industrial facilities that make modifications that increase air pollution emissions must install best available control technology. VIWAPA operates with a permit that requires it to use the best available control technology to control emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. The complaint, which this settlement resolves, alleged numerous violations, including that VIWAPA had not properly operated nor maintained its water injection pollution control system during various times from October 2005 through December 2013. The complaint also alleged that the St. Thomas facility failed to meet the opacity (smoke) emission limits during normal operations and failed to conduct continuous monitoring to ensure compliance with its limits, and to keep proper records.
Under the agreement, at the St. Thomas facility, VIWAPA will:
- Properly operate and maintain the water injection pollution control system;
- Properly operate and maintain the continuous monitoring equipment;
- Develop and maintain an inventory of spare parts for the St. Thomas facility’s water injection pollution control system and emission monitoring equipment;
- Arrange for third-party audits and self-audits to ensure compliance with the water injection pollution control system requirements and emission monitoring requirements;
- Install a pollution control device to reduce visible emissions from one unit; and
- Install a video camera system to monitor visible emissions from the stacks and conduct visible emission monitoring when visible emissions are observed.
Under the agreement, at the St. John facility, VIWAPA will:
- Use cleaner fuel; and
- Submit a request to the Virgin Islands government to modify the permit to designate the unit as an emergency unit.
EPA has worked with VIWAPA over the past several years to address its violations and operations at the St. Thomas facility and the St. John facility. As a result of that work, VIWAPA has already repaired and replaced pollution controls and monitoring equipment at the St. Thomas facility. It replaced its data acquisition system and installed an improved water system, which it now uses in its water injection pollution control system.
For more information on this settlement or to read the proposed consent decree, go to: http://www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees
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IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS, PLEASE CALL THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS AT 202-514-2007.
U.S. Department of Justice Awards Grant to VI to Hire 15 Law Enforcement Officers to Help Build Trust, Reduce ViolenceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) funding awards, including a $1,838,023 award to the Virgin Islands Police Department for 15 additional law enforcement positions. Over $107 million will be awarded nationally, through the COPS Hiring Program (CHP).
“The COPS Office is pleased to assist local law enforcement agencies throughout the country in addressing their most critical public safety issues,” said Ronald L. Davis, Director of the COPS Office. “These grants are not simply about putting more officers on the street, they are about expanding the capacity of law enforcement agencies to engage in community policing.”
CHP provides grants to state, local and tribal law enforcement agencies to hire or rehire community policing officers. The program provides salaries and benefits for officer and deputy hires for three years.
“These grants demonstrate the US Department of Justice’s and the US Attorney’s Office’s commitment to ensuring public safety by getting more officers on the streets,” said Ronald W. Sharpe, United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands. “Moreover, by having these officers engage in community policing, the community is assured that progressive steps, such as ending excessive use of force and promoting accountability systems, are being taken to build trust between law enforcement officers and the community.”
U.S. Attorney Sharpe said that when there is trust between law enforcement officers and the community, both victims and witnesses are more likely to provide law enforcement with
information needed to resolve crimes and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.Priority consideration for the grants was given this year to agencies that selected any of the Building Trust focus areas or School Based Policing through School Resource Officers. All applicants were encouraged to refer to the report of the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing for suggested actions to incorporate into their proposed community policing strategy.
The COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has invested over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 127,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledgeresource products including publications, training, and technical assistance. For the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2015 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.
Woman Sentenced to Eight Months in Prison for Marijuana PossessionRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI– District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez today sentenced Amari Stroy, 23, of Union City, Georgia, to eight months in prison and one year of supervised release for possession of marijuana, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
On June 8, 2015, Stroy pleaded guilty to possession of marijuana. Court records show that on February 13, 2015, Stroy was apprehended at the Cyril E. King International Airport on St. Thomas with approximately 9.9 kilograms of marijuana after arriving from Atlanta, Georgia.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David White.
Four Arrested on St. Croix for Drug-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Four defendants made their initial appearance today in District Court on St. Croix before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon after their arrest for drug-related offenses, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. The defendants are:
- Bruce McIntosh, 52, aka “Bird” aka “Butch.” He is charged with five counts of Distribution of Cocaine, one count of Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Cocaine, and one count of Using a Communications Facility in Causing or Facilitating the Commission of Felonies under the Controlled Substances Act.
- Misael Melendez, 49, aka “Salao.” Melendez is charged with three counts of Distribution of Cocaine and one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
- Winston Decastro, 42, aka “Moo-Moo.” He is charged with one count of Distribution of Cocaine and one count of Possession of Cocaine.
- Carl Hansen, 55, aka “Cuz” & “Aquillo.” He is charged with one count of Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Cocaine and one count of Using a Communications Facility in Causing or Facilitating the Commission of Felonies under the Controlled Substances Act.A federal grand jury indicted the four defendants Tuesday. Winston Decastro was arrested Tuesday evening and the other three were arrested early this morning by federal law enforcement officers and the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD). Judge
Cannon ordered McIntosh, Melendez and Decastro detained pending further proceedings. He also ordered Hansen released on an unsecured $50,000 bond, and scheduled the arraignment and detention hearing for September 21, 2015.The maximum penalties for conviction of the charged offenses are as follows: Distribution of Cocaine, 40 years in prison; Conspiracy to Commit Distribution of Cocaine, 40 years in prison; Felon in Possession of a Firearm, 10 years in prison; Using a Communications Facility in Causing or Facilitating the Commission of Felonies Under the Controlled Substances Act, four years in prison; Possession of Cocaine, one year in prison.
U.S. Attorney Sharpe 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 being investigated by the VIPD, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, with assistance from the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, U.S. Marshals Service,
Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian H. Stringer.St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Monday, September 14, 2015, Lued Browne, 44, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for January 4, 2016.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on May 22, 2015, Virgin Islands Police Department officers responded to a report that a vehicle was blocking the exit at Antilles School. Upon arrival at the scene, officers observed Browne, the sole occupant of the vehicle, sitting in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. The officers also observed a firearm between the driver’s seat and center console of the vehicle, which they immediately confiscated. Further investigation revealed that Browne has a prior felony conviction and could not legally possess a firearm in the Virgin Islands. Browne faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Monday, September 14, 2015, Ja’moi Khadeem Corraspe, 22, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to Conspiracy to Ship Firearms with Obliterated Serial Numbers, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for January 4, 2016.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, between August 6, 2013 and October 7, 2013, Corraspe conspired with other individuals to unlawfully mail firearms with obliterated serial numbers from Jacksonville, Florida to St. Thomas. He directed the shipping of two firearms from Jacksonville to St. Thomas: a Smith and Wesson, Model SD40VE, .40 caliber pistol and a Glock, Model 20, 10mm pistol, both with obliterated serial numbers. Corraspe is not
a federal licensed firearms dealer and is not authorized to possess the two firearms in the District of the Virgin Islands. He faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,
Firearms and Explosives and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.St. Croix Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ConvictionRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis on Thursday sentenced Vonne Bailey, 24, of St. Croix, to 12 months in prison for Unlawful Mailing of a Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Lewis also entenced Bailey to one year of supervised release and ordered him to pay a $1,000 fine.
In April of this year, Bailey pleaded guilty to Unlawful Mailing of a Firearm. As part of his plea, Bailey admitted that in May 2014, he sent his sister to the post office to pick up a package. The package, shipped from outside of the Virgin Islands, contained a pringfield Armory .40 caliber pistol, a magazine or ammunition storage device, and a Smith and Wesson AR-15 lower receiver with an obliterated serial number. Bailey claimed ownership and responsibility for the package.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rami S. Badawy and Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Six Men Arrested for Conspiracy to Possess Cocaine with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) today arrested six men from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico on a criminal complaint charging them with conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Three Dominican nationals, Alexandro Gerandino-Aracena, 39, Marco Asala, 35, and Pedro Antion Beltre Guzman, 36, and three men from Puerto Rico, Ricardo Cardona, 35, Wilfredo Perez, 30, and Jose Luis Ponce, 36, made their initial appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller. Judge Miller remanded the men into the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a preliminary and detention hearing on September 8, 2015.
According to the complaint, the men conspired to possess more than five kilograms of cocaine. The maximum sentence for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute is life in prison and a fine of $50 million.
United States Attorney Sharpe eminds 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.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the DEA, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
St. Thomas Resident Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI - District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez today sentenced Clinton G. Todman, Jr., 44, to 40 months in federal prison for his conviction of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. In addition to the prison term, Judge Gomez sentenced Todman to serve three years of supervised release, pay a $100 special assessment, and perform 250 hours of community service.
Todman pleaded guilty on May 7, 2015 to the charge of Felon in Possession of a Firearm. According to court documents, on February 5, 2015, after receiving descriptions of two vehicles exchanging gunfire in the area of the Cost-U-Less on St. Thomas, Virgin Islands police officers searched for vehicles matching the descriptions. The vehicles were described as a black and a goldcolored Honda. During their search for the vehicles, officers observed Todman in the driver’s seat of a black Honda in the area of Tutu High Rise. After Todman exited the vehicle, the officers patted him down for their safety and retrieved a Kel-Tec, .40 caliber firearm with an obliterated serial number. Todman was not authorized to carry a firearm because in 1991, he was convicted of a felony in the District Court of the Virgin Islands.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol,Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nelson L. Jones.
Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI –
D’mari Heyliger, 23, pleaded guilty Monday in District Court on
St. Thomas to Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number and
Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe
announced. Sentencing is scheduled for January 11, 2016.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on December 20, 2013, a federal
search warrant was executed on Heyliger’s residence in St. Thomas and two firearms were
located in his bedroom. Both firearms had obliterated serial numbers, and Heyliger is not
authorized to possess a firearm in the Virgin Islands. Heyliger faces a maximum sentence of five
years in prison and a $250,000 fine for Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial
Number, and five years in prison and a $15,000 fine for Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and
Explosives (ATF). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Illegal Immigrant Sentenced to Prison for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez on Monday sentenced Eilin Castillo,
37, of the Dominican Republic, to 14 months in prison and three years of supervised release for
Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
On May 8, 2015, Castillo pleaded guilty to Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien. Court
records show that in November 2014, Castillo, who is an illegal immigrant with no authority to be in
the United States or possess a firearm, possessed and discharged a firearm with an obliterated serial
number. Castillo discharged the firearm in a residential area on St. Thomas in connection with a
domestic dispute. After discharging the firearm, Castillo attempted to dispose of it, but law
enforcement agents recovered the firearm.This case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland
Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David White.Two St. Thomas Residents Plead Guilty to Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Hugo Ogando, 37, and Mario De Los Santos, 39, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to conspiracy to possess cocaine with the intent to distribute, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2015.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on April 21, and 22, 2015, Ogando and De Los Santos agreed to sell 4.5 kilograms of cocaine. Members of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) arrested them when they attempted the sale. The drug trafficking conspiracy charge to which they pleaded guilty carries a sentence of not less than five years and up to a maximum of 40 years in prison and a fine of $5 million.
This case is the result of an investigation by the DEA and it is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Thomas Man Charged in District Court with Bulk Cash SmugglingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Kevin Greaves, 43, made his initial appearance on August 26, 2015, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in a Complaint with bulk cash smuggling, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Greaves was placed on home confinement pending further proceedings in this matter.
According to the Complaint filed on August 25, 2015, Greaves was found in possession of $118,000 in cash on August 22, 2015. The Complaint alleges that Greaves had picked up the cash from a vessel that had traveled from the British Virgin Islands to Haulover Bay on the east end of St. John. Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents took Greaves into custody and seized the cash which had been stuffed into two duffle bags
Under federal law if convicted of bulk cash smuggling, Greaves faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and forfeiture of the cash seized. This case is the result of a joint investigation by HSI and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Delia Smith.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 Charged in District Court with Marijuana SmugglingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Alva Nicholas, 56, made his initial appearance on August 23, 2015, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in a Complaint with possession of 3.4 kilograms of marijuana with intent to distribute, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Nicholas has been detained pending further proceedings in this matter.
According to the Complaint filed on August 23, 2015, Nicholas was arrested by Department of Homeland Security Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents at the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas after his arrival on August 21, 2015. Agents were screening bags arriving at the airport when they detected an anomaly inside a suitcase bearing Nicholas’s name and flight tag. After further inspection, agents found 3.4 kilograms of marijuana wrapped in plastic inside the suitcase. The bag was repacked and placed on the conveyor belt. Nicholas was taken into custody after he collected the suitcase from the conveyor belt.
Under federal law if convicted of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Nicholas faces a maximum sentence of 5years in prison and fine of not more than $250,000. This case is the result of a joint investigation by the HSI and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Delia Smith.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 Charged with Federal Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Lued Browne, 44, made his initial appearance in District Court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in a two-count Indictment with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm in a school zone, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Browne was detained pending a detention hearing on August 27, 2015.
According to the Indictment which was filed August 6, 2015, in District Court on St. Thomas, Browne was found in possession of a firearm on the grounds of Antilles School. Browne was previously convicted in the District Court for the Northern District of Florida of armed bank robbery and use or possession of a firearm during a crime of violence.
If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, Browne faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Additionally, Browne faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine for possession of a firearm in a school zone, to run consecutively to any other sentence.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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.
St. Thomas Man Charged in District Court with Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Michael Lewis, 27, 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, two counts of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, and the local offenses of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of an unlicensed firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Lewis was detained pending a detention hearing on August 27, 2015.
According to the Indictment which was filed August 6, 2015, in District Court on St. Thomas, Lewis was found in possession of three firearms and numerous rounds of ammunition. Lewis was previously convicted in the Superior Court of two counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm and third degree assault with a deadly weapon.
Under federal law if convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, Lewis faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon under territorial law, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine; and if convicted of possession of an unlicensed firearm, he faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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.
St. Thomas Man Sentenced to 51 months in PrisonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI - District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez today sentenced Daniel Reyes Hurtado, 37, of St Thomas, to 51 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release for possessing child pornography, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Gomez also ordered Hurtado to register as a sex offender and pay a special assessment of $100.
According to court records, Hurtado used his laptop computer to download in excess of 600 child pornography images from a peer-to-peer sharing network.
Suspected child exploitation or missing children cases may be reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children via its toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 202-514-5678, or U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) at (340) 693-2250.
This case was investigated by HSI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney Everard E. Potter.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Friday, August 21, 2015, Dwayne Fahie, 26, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Thomas to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Sentencing is scheduled for December 18, 2015.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on April 24, 2015, Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) Officers conducted a traffic stop for illegal tint on a vehicle in which Fahie was the passenger. After observing furtive movements, Fahie was directed out of the car and fled the scene. After running from VIPD officers Fahie fell, exposing the handle of a firearm. VIPD officers recovered the firearm. Fahie was a convicted felon and not authorized to possess a firearm. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the VIPD. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Firearm ConvictionRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis on Wednesday sentenced Gregory Williams, Jr., 24, of St. Croix, to 12 months in prison for Illegally Receiving a Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Lewis also sentenced Williams to one year of supervised release and ordered him to pay a $1,000 fine.
In April of this year, Williams pleaded guilty to Illegal Receipt of Firearms. As part of his plea, Williams admitted that in January 2015, he picked up a package at the post office that had been sent from Florida knowing it contained an illegal firearm. The package contained a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol with an obliterated serial number. Williams, a resident of St. Croix, is not a licensed importer, dealer, or collector of firearms.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rami S. Badawy.
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery and Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wednesday, August 19, 2015
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery and Gun Charge
St. Croix, USVI – On Tuesday, August 18, 2015, Edigberto Diaz, 46, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Croix to Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Using and Carrying a Firearm during and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on June 21, 2014, Diaz and an accomplice entered Quality Foods in Estate Castle Coakley armed with handguns. Diaz and the accomplice entered into an office area, pointed their handguns at two individuals and demanded that they open the safe. Diaz and his accomplice removed $24,289.17 in cash and checks that were in deposit bags inside the safe. They also took cellular telephones, a music player, laptop computer, checkbook and backpacks from the victims. Subsequently, police arrived at the scene of the crime and arrested Diaz, who was carrying a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun with an obliterated serial number containing 14 rounds of ammunition.
Diaz faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine for the robbery charge and a mandatory seven years and $250,000.00 fine for the gun charge. A sentencing date has been set for December 17, 2015.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Distribution and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – On Wednesday, August 19, 2015, Dwayne Friday, 37, pleaded guilty in District Court on St. Croix to Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute and Carrying a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on November 19, 2014, Friday sold five baggies of cocaine to an undercover U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent on the Christiansted Boardwalk. In addition, on March 14, 2015, police responded to a citizen complaint that a male individual pointed a gun at another person on the Christiansted Boardwalk. Officers responded and approached the individual, later identified as Friday, who told police that he had a gun on him to protect himself and people on the boardwalk as he was doing security. After Friday admitted that he did not have a license to carry the gun, the officers seized the gun. A subsequent search of Friday yielded 26 dime bags of white powdery substance, 13 artist cups of marijuana, 23 dime bags of marijuana and $373 in cash. Field tests determined that the white powdery substance was cocaine. Friday faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine on the drug charges and a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years and a $250,000fine on the gun charge.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the DEA. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alphonso Andrews.
St. Croix Man Arrested on Firearm Possession and Related ChargeRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI –Shawki Thomas, 25, was arrested today and charged by criminal complaint with Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number and Unlawful Mailing of a Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. After his arrest, Thomas made his initial appearance in District Court before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon. Judge Cannon ordered Thomas to remain in custody pending a detention hearing Friday.
If convicted of Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, Thomas faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison. If convicted of Unlawful Mailing of a Firearm, Thomas faces a maximum sentence of two years in prison.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Stringer.
Man Sentenced to 37 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis on Tuesday sentenced Juan Carlos Seguinot-Martinez, 34, of Puerto Rico, to 37 months in prison and three years of supervised release for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Lewis also ordered Martinez to pay a $1,500 fine and $500 community restitution.
In April, Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Court records show that in December 2014, Martinez purchased and attempted to mail approximately one kilogram, approximately 2.2 pounds, of cocaine from St. Croix to Buffalo, New York.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland
Security Investigations, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rami S. Badawy
Man Charged in District Court with Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Man Charged in District Court with Firearm Offenses
St. Thomas, USVI – Tashimo Scatliffe, 33, made his initial appearance in District Court Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged with two counts of Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm and Reckless Endangerment, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Scatliffe is in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for August 20, 2015.
According to the Indictment, which was filed August 6, 2015 in District Court on St. Thomas, Scatliffe was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition after he was convicted in the Superior Court of first-degree assault-larceny.
Scatliffe is charged with violations of both federal and Virgin Islands law. For the federal charges, the maximum sentence for Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number is five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. For Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon or Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, t h e m a x i m u m s e n t e n c e i s 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Under Virgin Islands law, the maximum sentence for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon is 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. For Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, the maximum sentence is five years in prison and a $15,000 fine; for Reckless Endangerment, the maximum sentence isfive years in prison. For Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number, there is a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
French National Pleads Guilty to 38 Counts of Alien SmugglingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Alain Rene Leichtnam, 71, a French national, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St. Thomas to 38 counts of an Indictment charging him with encouraging and inducing aliens to enter the United States in violation of law, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
According to the plea agreement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Air and Marine (OAM) and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) intercepted a sailing vessel Mazurka heading towards Coral Bay on the East End of St. John, Virgin Islands in the early morning hours of April 29, 2015. CBP agents observed Leichtnam operating the vessel and identified 38 Cuban nationals and one national of St. Lucia onboard. Leichtnam admitted that he transported the Cuban nationals to the United States for financial gain knowing that the conduct was unlawful.
Leichtnam was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing, which is scheduled for December 4, 2015.
“Those responsible for encouraging and inducing immigrants to enter the United States illegally are placing personal profit ahead of public safety and the lives of the immigrants,” U.S. Attorney Sharpe said. “This conviction should warn those involved in this dangerous and illegal activity that it comes with a high price.”
Angel M. Melendez, special agent in charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands said: “ICE continues to be committed to putting an end to the practice of profiting from the illegal transportation of aliens across our borders and throughout our country. We will continue to vigorously enforce the federal laws which punish the many manifestations of the complex problem of smuggling, trafficking and harboring illegal aliens. Tragically, many have lost their lives while attempting this illegal and treacherous trip. Human smugglers have a callous disregard for the value of human life and are only concerned about making a profit. ICE will continue to aggressively work with our U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) partners to identify and arrest those involved in this illicit and dangerous activity.”
The case was investigated by ICE with the assistance of CBP and the USCG. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kim L. Chisholm.
Former Director of Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority and Others Charged with Conspiracy and BriberyRead the Press Release
Three Virgin Islands men were charged in an indictment unsealed today with various offenses based on their participation in a bribery scheme involving over $17 million in construction contracts awarded by the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority (VIPFA).
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe of the District of the Virgin Islands, Special Agent in Charge Carlos Cases of the FBI’s San Juan, Puerto Rico, Division, Virgin Islands Inspector General Steven Van Beverhoudt and Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) made the announcement.
Julito Francis, 53, former Director of Finance and Administration for the VIPFA, is charged with 11 counts of conspiracy, bribery, extortion under color of official right, honest services wire fraud and perjury. Gerard Castor, 69, president and owner of Balbo Construction Corporation, is charged with 10 counts of conspiracy, bribery and honest services wire fraud. John Woods, 59, co-principal of an architectural company that worked on behalf of the VIPFA, is charged with three counts of conspiracy, bribery and extortion under color of official right.
Francis, Castor and Woods were arrested earlier today and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller of the District of the Virgin Islands. The defendants were released pending an August 12 arraignment.
According to the indictment, Castor provided more than $400,000 in improvements to Francis’ personal residence, and over $10,000 in improvements to Woods’ personal property. In return, Francis and Woods used their official positions to ensure that Balbo Construction was awarded construction contracts by the VIPFA that were worth over $17 million, including a multi-million contract, and supplements thereto, to build the St. Thomas Regional Library. The indictment further alleges that the defendants attempted to conceal the bribery scheme by creating false documents that suggested Francis and Woods intended to pay Castor for the work performed.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s San Juan Division, St. Thomas Resident Agency, the Virgin Islands Office of the Inspector General and IRS-CI. This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Laura Fulton and Justin D. Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nelson Jones of the District of the Virgin Islands. Deputy Chief Tracee Plowell of the Criminal Division’s Office of Enforcement Operations and Trial Attorney Jennifer Blackwell of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section participated in the investigation when they were assigned to the Public Integrity Section.
Francis et al Indictment
Former Director of Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority and Others Charged with Conspiracy and BriberyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Three Virgin Islands men were charged in an indictment unsealed today with various offenses based on their participation in a bribery scheme involving over $17 million in construction contracts awarded by the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority (VIPFA).
Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe of the District of the Virgin Islands, Special Agent in Charge Carlos Cases of the FBI’s San Juan, Puerto Rico, Division, Virgin Islands Inspector General Steven Van Beverhoudt and Special Agent in Charge Kelly R. Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) made the announcement.
Julito Francis, 53, former Director of Finance and Administration for the VIPFA, is charged with 11 counts of conspiracy, bribery, extortion under color of official right, honest services wire fraud and perjury. Gerard Castor, 69, president and owner of Balbo Construction Corporation, is charged with 10 counts of conspiracy, bribery and honest services wire fraud. John Woods, 59, co-principal of an architectural company that worked on behalf of the VIPFA, is charged with three counts of conspiracy, bribery and extortion under color of official right.
Francis, Castor and Woods were arrested earlier today and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller of the District of the Virgin Islands. The defendants were released pending an August 12 arraignment.
According to the indictment, Castor provided more than $400,000 in improvements to Francis’ personal residence, and over $10,000 in improvements to Woods’ personal property. In return, Francis and Woods used their official positions to ensure that Balbo Construction was awarded construction contracts by the VIPFA that were worth over $17 million, including a multi-million contract, and supplements thereto, to build the St.Thomas Regional Library. The indictment further alleges that the defendants attempted to conceal the bribery scheme by creating false documents that suggested Francis and Woods intended to pay Castor for the work performed.
The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the FBI’s San Juan Division, St. Thomas Resident Agency, the Virgin Islands Office of the Inspector General and IRS-CI. This case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Laura Fulton and Justin D. Weitz of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nelson Jones of the District of the Virgin Islands. Deputy Chief Tracee Plowell of the Criminal Division’s Office of Enforcement Operations and Trial Attorney Jennifer Blackwell of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section participated in the investigation when they were assigned to the Public Integrity Section.
Office on Violence Against Women Announces Online Resource Center for Institutions of Higher EducationRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) today announced the launch of The Center for Changing Our Campus Culture (www.changingourcampus.org), a new comprehensive online clearinghouse on sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking on campus. This new website provides the latest information, materials and resources for campus administrators, faculty and staff, as well as campus and community law enforcement, victim service providers, students, parents and other key stakeholders to use to improve campus safety.
“The launch of this website reaffirms the department’s commitment to providing campuses with tools to develop and implement effective responses to sexual and dating violence on campus,” said Deputy Attorney General Sally Quillian Yates. “The department commends campus leaders for championing these issues and for their dedication to bringing about lasting changes on their campuses.”
Since the release of Not Alone: The First Report of the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault on Jan. 22, 2014, the Justice Department, in partnership with the Department of Education, has strengthened federal enforcement efforts and provided institutions of higher education with tools to help combat sexual assault and domestic violence on campus.
“Colleges and universities across the country are looking for resources to improve their response to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking on campus," said Principal Deputy Director Bea Hanson of the Office on Violence Against Women. "Visitors to the website will have access to cutting-edge tools, including sample policies, protocols, and best practices, that can be adapted and replicated on colleges and universities across the county."
Content for The Center for Changing Our Campus Culture website was provided by OVW and its Grants to Reduce Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking on Campus Program technical assistance providers, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The center will continue to work collaboratively to update and maintain the website and will seek guidance and input from campus-based experts, campus communities, and grassroots groups committed to ending sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking.
Man Charged with Firearm and Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Dwayne Friday, 36, made his initial appearance in District Court Tuesday before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon after being charged in a three-count information with Distribution of Cocaine, Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, and Carrying a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Friday was detained pending trial.
If convicted, Friday faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison on the cocaine charges and life in prison on the firearm charge.
United States Attorney Sharpe reminds the public that an Information 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alphonso Andrews.
Man Charged in District Court with Firearm and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI –Gerard St. Rose, 24, made his initial appearance Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon in District Court after being charged in a three-count information with Possession of a Firearm Near a School, Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm, and Possession of Marijuana With Intent to Distribute Near a School, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced today. St. Rose was released pending trial.
If convicted, St. Rose faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison on the firearm charges and 10 years on the marijuana charge.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alphonso Andrews, Jr.
Man Pleads Guilty to Using Firearm During Carjacking at St. Croix Educational ComplexRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI –James Cruz, 20, pleaded guilty today in District Court on St. Croix to Using a Firearm during a Crime of Violence, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. As part of the plea, Cruz admitted that on February 21, 2015 at the St. Croix Educational Complex, he and an accomplice ordered two people onto the ground at gun point, and then drove off with their pick-up truck. Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) officers pursued Cruz and his accomplice, who abandoned the truck and fled on food in the Longpoint area. The officers quickly captured them.
The accomplice is a juvenile and has been adjudicated through the Office of the Attorney General of the Virgin Islands.
A sentencing hearing for Cruz is set for November 24, 2015. Cruz faces a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison. He is detained pending sentencing.
This case was investigated by the VIPD and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian H. Stringer.
St .Croix Man Sentenced to Probation, Home Confinement for Possession of Prison ContrabandRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis today sentenced Michael Anderson Boyce, 29, to five years of probation and eight months of home confinement for Possession of Prison Contraband, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
On March 20, 2015, Boyce pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of Prison Contraband. As part of the plea, Boyce admitted that on April 4, 2013 while he was an inmate at the Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility on St. Croix, he possessed a knife that was hidden inside his mattress.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Man Charged in District Court with Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Achille Heywood, 32, made his initial appearance Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after being charged in a four-count Information with Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics and Use of a Firearm During the Commission of Drug Trafficking, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Heywood was released after posting 10% of a $35,000 bond.
According to the Information, which was filed June 16 in District Court on St. Thomas, Heywood was found in possession of a firearm and ammunition after he was convicted in the Superior Court of unauthorized possession of a firearm.
If convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon or Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon, Heywood faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of Possession with intent to Distribute Narcotics, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and $1million fine. For Use of a Firearm during the Commission of Drug Trafficking, Heywood faces a mandatory consecutive sentence of five years in prison.
United States Attorney Sharpe reminds the public that an Information 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
St. Croix Man Sentenced to 37 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis, on July 16, 2015, sentenced Paul Girard, 27, to 37 months in prison for Possession of Prison Contraband, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Judge Lewis ordered Girard to serve the sentence consecutively to a separate sentence imposed by the Superior Court on March 3, 2015.
Girard pleaded guilty to four counts of possession of prison contraband on January 9, 2015. The charges stemmed from cell searches conducted by members of Golden Grove Adult Correctional Facility’s Gang Intelligence Search Team on November 16, 2012; January 16, 2013; and June 18, 2013, as well as a search conducted by federal law enforcement officers on April 7, 2014, while Girard was an inmate. The officers discovered and seized cell phones, a knife, and a homemade weapon or “shank” during the searches.
“Contraband in prison threatens the safety and security of inmates, employees, and the community as a whole,” U.S. Attorney Sharpe said. “Cell phones, in particular can be used to facilitate criminal activity inside and outside of Golden Grove including narcotics distribution and murder.”
Girard was sentenced on two counts each to 12 months in prison for possessing cell phones, 37 months for possessing a knife, and 37 months for possessing a shank, all to be served concurrently. The Court also sentenced Girard to one year of supervised release on each of the cellular telephone counts and to three years of supervised release on each of the weapon counts to run concurrently. Finally, the Court ordered Girard to pay a special assessment of $250.00.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rhonda Williams-Henry and Alphonso Andrews.
ICE launches task force in USVI to combat child predatorsRead the Press Release
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands – Citing the need for a territory-wide approach to fighting the escalation of child exploitation and other predatory crimes against children, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in St. Thomas and St. Croix has partnered with members of local, state and federal law enforcement, and community leaders, to form the U.S. Virgin Islands Crimes Against Children Task Force VICACTF).
Through VICACTF, federal and local law enforcement agencies will pool their resources to jointly investigate all crimes committed against children in the USVI. Task Force members will be encouraged to share evidence, ideas and investigative and forensic tools to ensure the most successful prosecutions possible. As such, the VICACTF will allow law enforcement to speak with a unified voice to defend the children of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The VICACTF is composed of the following agencies: ICE-HSI (lead agency), U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Virgin Islands Department of Justice, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services and Family Resource Center.
Each year, millions of children fall prey to sexual predators. These young victims are left with permanent psychological, physical and emotional scars. It is one of ICE's most important missions to investigate and target those who possess, transport and produce child pornography, as well as those
who engage in child sex tourism, and those who use sex to entice minors. Based on the number of complaints received by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) CyberTipline, Internet crimes against children are rising at alarming levels.In July 2003, in an effort to put an end to this type of criminal activity and protect children worldwide, ICE developed an initiative known as “Operation Predator.” Under Operation Predator, ICE and its law enforcement partners identify, investigate and arrest child predators and sexual offenders wherever they may attempt to hide. Since the inception of Operation Predator, the number of NCMEC referrals for new child exploitation cases in ICE HSI San Juan field office area of responsibility, which includes the USVI and Puerto Rico, has reached an all-time high resulting in more than 245 arrests. This year, the number of child exploitation-related arrests has increased by 39 percent with 50 arrests thus far compared to 36 in fiscal year 2014.
“ICE HSI is pleased to lead this initiative as it shows our commitment and that of our partners to protect our children from online predators,” said Angel M. Melendez, special agent in charge of HSI Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. “Joint partnerships such as the VICACTF should send a clear message to those who exploit the most vulnerable segment of our society, our children, that we will not rest until they are brought to justice.”
“It is absolutely essential that members of law enforcement, social service agencies and other stakeholders work together and leverage existing resources to prevent the exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is proud to be a part of this initiative to protect our children.”
“The Virgin Islands Department of Justice is committed to protecting the children within this community and will make every effort to prosecute identified child predators and sexual offenders. With an increase in this type of criminal activity, we must become more vigilant and use our
resources more effectively to combat crimes against children and prosecute offenders to the fullest extent of the Law,” said Virgin Islands Acting Attorney General James Carroll.“The Virgin Islands Police Department embraces the collaborative efforts of the federal and local partnerships in addressing the issues relating to crimes committed against children,” said Virgin Islands Police Commissioner Delroy Richards, Sr. “If the children are indeed our future then we must protect them from all predatory elements that seek to undermine the very laws that are enacted to shield them from those elements. Our resources must be directed to a common goal that centers on the eradication of all suspected predators in the territory. The bottom line is ‘zero’ tolerance.”
HSI encourages the public to report suspected child predators and any suspicious activity through its toll-free Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE or by completing its online tip form. Both are staffed around the clock by investigators. Suspected child sexual exploitation or missing children may be reported to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, an Operation Predator partner, via its tollfree 24-hour hotline, 1-800-THE-LOST.
For additional information about wanted suspected child predators, download HSI’s Operation Predator smartphone app or visit the online suspect alerts page.
HSI is a founding member and current chair of the Virtual Global Taskforce, an international alliance of law enforcement agencies and private industry sector partners working together to prevent and deter online child sexual abuse.
# ICE #
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. ICE is a 21st century law enforcement agency with broad responsibilities for a number of key homeland security priorities. For more information, visit: www.ICE.gov. To report suspicious activity, call 1-866-347-2423.St. Croix Man Sentenced to Four Years of Probation for Manufacturing MarijuanaRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chief District Court Judge Wilma A. Lewis, today, sentenced Luke Lubrin, 46, of St. Croix, to four years of probation for manufacturing marijuana, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced.
In February, Lubrin pleaded guilty to one count of manufacture of marijuana. As part of his plea, Lubrin admitted to growing marijuana on his property in Frederiksted, St. Croix. On June 26, 2014, a total of 58 marijuana plants were found on Lubrin’s property by special agents with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
As part of the term of probation, Lubrin was sentenced to serve six months of home confinement and pay a $1,000 fine.
The case was investigated by DEA and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rami S. Badawy and Alphonso Andrews.
Former V.i. Army National Guard Major Convicted by Jury for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – After a three-day trial, a federal jury found former Virgin Islands National Guard Major Sherrymae Morales, 54, guilty of 21 counts of wire fraud, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced today.
DistrictCourt Judge Curtis V. Gomez set the sentencing hearing for October 20, 2015. Morales was ordered to self-surrender to the United States Marshals Service on July 15, 2015, at 3 p.m.
According to evidence presented at trial, from 2010 until 2011, Morales was employed as a full-time employee with the Virgin Islands National Guard (VING) on St. Croix. At the same time she was employed as a full-time VING employee, Morales also held a full-time contract position with the Military Personnel Services Corporation (MPSC), which provides employee support services to members of the VING. Evidence presented at trial demonstrated that Morales submitted time sheets to both the MPSC and VING for the same 40-hour work weeks over a period of 14 months.
Morales faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and fines of up to $250,000 on each count of conviction. The case was investigated by the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command-Major Procurement Fraud Unit, Defense Criminal Investigative Service and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
Man Arrested, Charged with Illegal Possession of Body ArmorRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- Fabian Towers, 50, made his initial appearance in District Court today before U.S. Magistrate Ruth Miller after his arrest for Illegal Possession of Body Armor, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Towers was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending a detention hearing scheduled for July 1, 2015.
On April 9, 2015, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging Towers with Possession of Body Armor by a Violent Felon, in violation of federal and territorial law. According to the indictment, Towers possessed a bullet proof vest and had previously been convicted of First Degree Robbery in 1982 and 1983. As a person convicted of a crime of violence, Towers is prohibited from possessing body armor. If convicted, Towers, faces up to three years in prison on both the federal count and the territorial count.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo-Sprotte.
Man Arrested, Charged with Possession of Firearm by Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Dwayne Fahie, 26, made his initial appearance in District Court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller after his arrest for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, United States Attorney Ronald W. Sharpe announced. Fahie was released after posting a $50,000 property bond.
On June 4, 2015, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Fahie, charging him with two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and one count of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm. According to the indictment, Fahie was found in possession of a firearm after he was convicted in the Superior Court of reckless endangerment. If convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon under federal law, Fahie faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. If convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon under territorial law, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. For Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, Fahie faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
United States Attorney Sharpe 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 the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sigrid M. Tejo- protte.