District of the Virgin Islands
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Car Accident Leads to Guilty Plea After Police Find Marijuana, an AR-15 pistol and Ammunition in St. Thomas Man’s CarRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that Kahlid Blyden appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller and entered a plea of guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1).
According to the written plea agreement, Blyden was involved in an automobile accident on August 21, 2020. A responding Virgin Islands Police Department officer smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car driven by Blyden. Officers searched the car and found a backpack with a large plastic bag inside containing 15.6 ounces of marijuana, an AR-15 pistol and a box of ammunition. Blyden admitted as true that he was in possession of the marijuana and firearm. Court records reveal that Blyden attempted to flee but was detained by Virgin Islands Police Department officers.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by United States Attorney’s Office of the Virgin Islands.
St. Thomas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing a Machine Gun, Following Foot Chase and Seizure of $ 800,000 in CurrencyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Gretchen C.F. Shappert, United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands, announced today that John Burgos was sentenced to 21 months in prison and two years of supervised release for possessing a machine gun in violation of federal law. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit the weapon and all interest in the nearly $ 800,000 that was seized on the day of his arrest.
According to court documents, on February 21, 2020, federal agents acting in an undercover capacity made numerous phone calls to an individual later identified as John Burgos. The purpose of the calls was to negotiate the transfer of money proceeds of suspected drug trafficking, in the amount of almost $800,000. On February 24th, federal agents met up with the defendant Burgos at a predetermined location on St. Thomas. The defendant was completing the monetary transaction when he saw the agents and fled. A lengthy foot chase ensued, and the defendant was arrested by federal agents in the Estate Tutu area of St. Thomas.
Agents recovered a 30-round extended magazine in Burgos’ pocket. Nearby, under a vehicle, agents recovered a loaded Glock pistol equipped with an “auto sear,” a conversion device that renders a pistol fully automatic (i.e., a machinegun). Agents seized the money, the ammunition, and the firearm equipped with the auto sear. Following his arrest, the defendant admitted he possessed the Glock automatic machine gun and ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorneys Kyle Payne and Nathan Brooks.
U.S. Attorney Shappert noted that proceeds of criminal activity administratively forfeited by federal law enforcement are routinely directed to local law enforcement agencies, such as VIPD, for use in their law enforcement work.
Illegal Alien from the Dominican Republic Sentenced Today for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm Related to a Shooting at the Executive NightclubRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Gretchen C.F. Shappert, United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands, announced today that Charlie Manuel Castillo Borg, 27, a citizen of the Dominican Republic with no legal status in the United States, was sentenced to time served in custody. He has been detained under custody by local and federal authorities since December 31, 2019. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit the firearm he unlawfully possessed.
According to court documents, on December 22, 2019, a shooting occurred at the Executive Night Club, Bar and Restaurant located at Contant #38, St. Thomas. V.I. Surveillance video from the incident collected at the scene shows a male subject, later identified with the initials I.D.A., open the door of the Executive Night Club, Bar and Restaurant and discharge a firearm into the establishment. Immediately thereafter, the surveillance video records the defendant, Charlie Manuel Castillo Borg, shooting the firearm at I.D.A., striking him several times. Medical personnel later pronounced I.D.A. dead at the scene. A query conducted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services found that the defendant Charlie Manuel Castillo Borg is an illegal alien in the United States.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan A. Albino.
Puerto Rican Man Arrested for Smuggling over $100,000 in U.S. CurrencyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Blas Sebastian Panzardi Davila of Puerto Rico, appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller for an initial appearance after his arrest on Thursday evening for currency smuggling, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court records, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) interdicted a vessel traveling from the area of Culebra, Puerto Rico towards St. Thomas at around 9:10 p.m., without lights. Davila captained the vessel with no passengers aboard. CBP boarded the vessel and discovered in excess of $100,000 in vacuum-sealed plastic bags. The government charged Davila with concealing and conspiring to conceal currency in excess of $100,000 on board a vessel outfitted for smuggling.
If convicted, Davila faces a maximum sentence of 15 years’ incarceration.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Everard E. Potter.
United States Attorney Shappert reminds the public that a complaint is merely a formal charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty After Being Arrested at Cyril E. King Airport with 2.9 Kilograms of Marijuana in his Carry-on BagRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Trevon Richards, 31, of St. Thomas, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller and entered a guilty plea yesterday to one count charging him with possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Richards arrived at the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas on November 4, 2020. After disembarking, Richards was stopped on the tarmac when a K-9 alerted to his backpack. Customs and Border Patrol Officers searched Robinson’s bag finding six vacuum sealed plastic bags containing approximately 2.9 kilograms of marijuana.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands.
St. Croix Man Arrested for Fleeing from Park Rangers After Shots Were Fired on Buck IslandRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Aneudis Acevedo, 33, of St. Croix, appeared before Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon, Jr., for an Initial Appearance after his arrest by National Park Service Rangers on the charges of Interfering with Agency Functions, Violating a Lawful Order, Disorderly Conduct, and Resisting or Impeding an Officer of the United States.
According to court documents, in the late afternoon of January 10, 2021, shots were fired on Buck Island after a fight occurred on the beach. Immediately after the shots were fired, Acevedo fled the scene in his boat at a high rate of speed while carrying several passengers. He fled from a National Park Service boat, disobeying multiple orders directing him to stop. Ultimately, the United States Coast Guard assisted and took Acevedo into custody. However, at that point the boat passengers were no longer on the boat. A subsequent search of Acevedo’s boat yielded a loaded firearm, a small amount of marijuana, and five cell phones.
The investigation in this matter is ongoing and is being conducted by the National Park Service, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston is prosecuting the case.
United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. 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.
U.S. Attorney Gretchen Shappert Asks Virgin Islanders to Recognize and Celebrate Our Law Enforcement Officers: National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, January 9thRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands encourages everyone to join her this Saturday, January 9th, by saluting our law enforcement officers and showing support on Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. “Local and federal law enforcement officers are our first responders whenever our communities are threatened by criminal activity, natural disasters, or other public safety emergencies. The men and women of law enforcement risk their lives and sacrifice their personal interests in order to protect and defend all of us,” Shappert said. “And each year, approximately 140 to 160 officers sacrifice their lives in the line of duty. It’s our job to acknowledge and recognize their enormous contributions to public safety and to our well-being.”
National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day will be observed across the country, this Saturday, January 9th. The holiday was originally created in 2015 by multiple organizations to express gratitude for law enforcement officers throughout the United States. One of the leading organizations to support this holiday is C.O.P.S—Concerns of Police Survivors. For more information about C.O.P.S. and how to support law enforcement on January 9th, see https://www.concernsofpolicesurvivors.org/l-e-a-d .
Anyone who appreciates law is encouraged to consider ways to show appreciation to law enforcement officers during Law Enforcement Appreciation Day:
- Change your profile picture on social media show support for Law Enforcement.
- Wear blue clothing in support of law enforcement.
- Send a letter, card or email to your local police department or federal agency expressing support and appreciation.
- Share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media.
- Ask children to write letters in support of law enforcement.
- Participate in Project Blue Light by proudly displaying a blue light in support of law enforcement.
Most importantly, if you see a law enforcement officer, thank a law enforcement officer.
Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Transporting Illegal AlienRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Courtney Matthias was sentenced today on his conviction for transporting an illegal alien, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Robert Molloy sentenced Matthias to a 24 month term of imprisonment, a 3 year term of supervised release, a $7,500 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents filed in the case, on October 1, 2019, five aliens traveled by boat from Tortola to St. John, United States Virgin Islands, where they entered the United States without inspection at a place not designated as a point of entry. Matthias then transported several of those aliens in his vehicle to the ferry terminal in St. John. In addition, Matthias purchased a ferry ticket to St. Thomas for one of the aliens and boarded the ferry with her.
This case was investigated by Virgin Islands Port Authority, Homeland Security Investigations, and Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Sleeper.
Texas Resident Arrested for Marijuana in Carry-On Bag Upon Arrival at Cyril E. King Airport on St. ThomasRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI –United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. announced that a criminal complaint has been filed against Lequan Jaheem Pemberton, resident of Austin, Texas for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Pemberton made his initial appearance in federal court Tuesday, December 22nd, in St. Thomas.
According to the affidavit filed in this case, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officers were conducting baggage inspections on American Airlines Flight #943 from Miami, FL. Passenger, Lequan Jaheem Pemberton was selected for a secondary bag examination. During a preliminary exam of Pemberton’s carry-on bag, officers discovered several plastic wrapped bundles. After their discovery, Pemberton was referred to the secondary CBP inspection area. Further inspection of the bundles revealed a green leafy substance that tested positive for marijuana. The marijuana weighed approximately 4.32 kilograms. Lequan Jaheem Pemberton was read his Miranda Rights and waived his rights. During questioning by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Pemberton stated that the marijuana belonged to him and he claimed that he intended to smoke it.
This case is being investigated by HSI and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Virgin Islands.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Man with Loaded Firearm in Baby Diaper Bag Is Charged with Federal Offenses Related to Jewelry Store RobberyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that a complaint has been filed charging Shemelle Isaac with accessory after the fact, possession of stolen property, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.
According to court documents, on Friday, December 11, 2020, Tashawn Warner was arrested for his role in the robbery of the Gems & Gold Corner jewelry store in St. Thomas, which occurred on September 19, 2020. Immediately prior to his arrest, Warner was observed loading bags into the trunk of a 2020 Gray Toyota Corolla registered to him. After Warner closed the trunk and entered the Corolla, a Black Infinity G37x drove towards Warner at a high rate of speed and stopped next to Warner’s vehicle. Warner exited the Corolla, removed the bags from the trunk of the Corolla, and placed them into the trunk of the Infinity G37x. Warner then briefly opened and closed one of the passenger side doors of the Infinity G37x, which then drove off. As Warner got back into the Corolla, he was arrested.
At the same time that Warner was being placed into custody, Shemelle Isaac was observed walking from the direction where the Infinity G37x had driven off, holding a child. Isaac entered a residence briefly then approached the arresting agents (without the child) and identified himself as “Shawn,” a friend of Warner’s.
Following Warner’s arrest, the Infinity G37x was located parked around the corner from Isaac’s residence in front of another residence. While agents were photographing the Infinity G37x, the hood was checked and found to still be warm, as if the vehicle had recently been driven. VIPD officers called for a tow truck. The officers observed bags located inside the passenger area of the vehicle.
While agents were awaiting the tow truck, Shemelle Isaac approached on foot and stated the vehicle was his, but it was registered to his girlfriend. Shemelle Isaac confirmed he was aware of the article in paper which was Warner’s arrest warrant for his involvement in the jewelry store robbery and was coming up to speak to Warner about it. Shemelle Isaac insisted he needed his daughter’s diaper bag out of the car, because it contained her milk. However, when agents offered to give him the bag only after they searched it for contraband, he refused.
Agents obtained a search warrant for both the Corolla and the Infinity G37x. They search the (diaper) bag, which contained a fully loaded Glock 17 in a holster. Inside the trunk of the vehicle, agents located a duffel bag containing an unloaded Glock 26, three loaded AK-47 style rifles, four Glock magazines, three AK-47 magazines including a drum magazine, rifle ammunition and a sandwich bag containing 5 gold necklaces and a bracelet. Agents confirmed with the owner of the Gems & Gold Corner jewelry store that the recovered jewelry was part of the jewelry stolen during the robbery perpetrated on September 19, 2020. Based on a combined weight of the found pieces of jewelry shown to the owner, the owner estimated the price of the found pieces as approximately $26,000.00.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan Albino.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana After Being Arrested at Cyril E. King Airport with 3 Kilograms of Marijuana in his SuitcaseRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Nathaniel Robinson, 29, of Moreno Valley, California, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller in District Court and entered a guilty plea to one count charging him with possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Robinson arrived at the Cyril E. King airport in St. Thomas on April 10, 2020. He retrieved his bag from baggage claim and was selected for a secondary inspection. Customs and Border Patrol Officers searched Robinson’s bag finding seven vacuum sealed plastic bags containing approximately three kilograms of marijuana.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands.
Second Man Charged with St. Thomas Gems & Gold Corner Jewelry Store RobberyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI –United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that Tashawn T.A. Warner was arrested today for his involvement in the September 19, 2020 Gems & Gold Corner store robbery. He made his first appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller this afternoon. A detention hearing is scheduled for December 15, 2020.
According to the affidavit filed in the case, two masked men exited a vehicle and entered the store carrying guns. One of the men used a pistol to assault a store employee by striking the employee in the head. The other man brandished the rifle type firearm. Both men took jewelry from the store and got back into the vehicle which was driven by a third man. The complaint alleges Warner was the man brandishing the rifle in the store. Jamari Benjamin was previously arrested in connection with this offense; the third man remains at large.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department and prosecuted by United States Attorney’s Office of the Virgin Islands.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Passenger of Vessel Pleads Guilty to Smuggling $287,660 into St. Thomas Following High-Speed Chase and Apprehension Near Savana IslandRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Jose Carlos Diaz Melendez, resident of Puerto Rico, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller in the District Court and entered a guilty plea to the charge of concealing $287,660.00 in U.S. currency while onboard a vessel outfitted for smuggling in violation of Title 46, United States Code, Section 70503(a)(3), U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court documents, on September 30, 2019, at approximately 2:00 A.M., Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Marine Unit agents identified a boat traveling without navigational lights north of Savana Island. CBP agents pulled their vessel alongside the 24-foot yola-type vessel that was operating without lights. CBP agents activated their police blue lights and discharged a flare, in an effort to convince the other vessel to yield. When CBP agents attempted to initiate a stop, the other vessel did not yield but instead increased speed. The CBP agents shot one round into one of the engines of the other vessel at which point the vessel decreased speed and stopped. The passenger threw a duffel bag overboard. The bag was recovered by CBP agents and later found to contain $287,660.00 in U.S. currency and a Glock firearm. After CBP agents disabled one of the boat’s motor, they boarded the vessel, and apprehended the captain, who was later identified as Arioc Diaz Melendez, and the passenger, later identified as Jose Carlos Diaz Melendez, of the vessel. After pleading guilty, Jose Carlos Diaz Melendez was remanded to the custody of the Bureau of Prisons. He will be sentenced on a later date. The captain of the vessel, Arioc Diaz Melendez, pled guilty on November 30, 2020 and is awaiting sentencing.
This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan Albino.
Houston Man Arrested for International Money Laundering Conspiracy Stretching from the U.S. Virgin Islands to NigeriaRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Marvellous Eghaghe was arrested in Houston, Texas in connection with international wire fraud and money laundering schemes.
According to the indictment filed in the case, Eghaghe created a Texas company and an associated bank account that he used to funnel money fraudulently obtained from victims in the United States Virgin Islands, Alabama, Texas and Colombia. Part of the scheme involved “spoofing,” in which perpetrators intrude upon victims’ business email communications by setting up an email address similar to that of one of the legitimate participants, thereby diverting money transfers to unknown subjects inside and outside of the United States. The indictment also alleges that in another instance, coconspirators forged over $2 million in checks from the account of an unsuspecting business.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan Brooks.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Virgin Islands Women Sentenced to Federal Prison Resulting from Their Involvement in a Massive Stolen Identity Tax Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Nisha Brathwaite, age 39, and Darleen Thompson, age 38, both of St. Croix, Virgin Islands were sentenced last Thursday and Friday, respectively for conspiracy to defraud the United States, U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Brathwaite was sentenced to 21 months in prison, 3 years supervised release and ordered to pay a special assessment of $100.00, plus restitution in the amount of $57,360.00. Thompson was sentenced to 21 months in prison, 3 years supervised release and ordered to pay a special assessment of $100.00, plus restitution in the amount of $62,997.53.
Both women were charged in a ten-defendant, 119-count Bill of Indictment returned by the federal grand jury in September of 2016. Both pled guilty in January 2020. According to the plea agreements and stipulated documents filed in federal court, from January 2011 to July 2012, both women and others participated in a scheme to steal money from the United States treasury by fraudulently obtaining federal income tax refunds. They and their co-conspirators caused income tax returns for tax years 2010 and 2011 to be electronically filed in individuals’ true names and actual social security numbers; however, the defendants and their coconspirators falsified the individuals’ income earned, tax withholding amounts, credits, and other information, and thereby claimed refunds to which they were not entitled.
As a result of the scheme, $57,360 was deposited into Brathwaite’s bank account and $62,997.53 was deposited into Thompson’s bank account. The case is the result of years of investigative work by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations who conducted a probe into a massive stolen identity refund fraud scheme perpetrated in the Virgin Islands and elsewhere and determined that Internal Revenue Service lost hundreds of thousands of dollars from the scheme. Of ten defendants charged in the Virgin Islands tax fraud scheme, Brathwaite and Thompson are the second and third to be sentenced. Four others have entered guilty pleas and are pending sentencing. The remaining three are pending a trial date.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alphonso Andrews, Jr. and Melissa Ortiz.
St. Croix Man Apprehended with Guns, Ammunition, Drugs and Money Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ChargeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Rakem Hendrickson, 28, of St. Croix, appeared before Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon, Jr., in District Court and entered a guilty plea to the charge of Use of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Crime, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
This offense carries a possible sentence of incarceration for a minimum of 5 years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000 dollars, and a term of supervised release up to 5 years. Sentencing is set for April 14, 2021.
According to court documents, on February 16, 2018, the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) received a tip from a concerned citizen that Hendrickson was selling drugs from his Jeep Wrangler, that Hendrickson was known to carry a firearm, and that he routinely parked the Jeep in the vicinity of Dynasty (Paul’s) Grocery Store. VIPD officers set up surveillance at that location and thereafter observed Hendrickson, park and exit his vehicle. Officers observed drug paraphernalia consisting of a clear plastic bag containing multiple vials in plain view, located in the back of Hendrickson’s Jeep. Shortly thereafter, officers obtained and executed a search warrant. As a result, officers located and confiscated a loaded Glock 22 Austria handgun, 2 additional magazines, 82 rounds of ammunition, approximately 133 grams of marijuana, drug paraphernalia in the form of 94 plastic vials, a digital scale, 2 mason jars, plastic baggies, and $2,584 cash. The foregoing occurred within 1,000 feet of the Lew Muckle Elementary School.
The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations. The DEA Southeast Laboratory in Miami analyzed the marijuana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston prosecuted the case.
Dominican Republic National Who Operated the Underground Nightclub in St. Thomas Pleads Guilty to Bringing Illegal Aliens to the U.S. for Financial Gain and to Transporting Women in the TerritoryRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Yohanna Gonzalez-McFarlane, 39, of the Dominican Republic, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller in District Court and entered a guilty plea to four counts charging her with bringing illegal aliens to the United States for financial gain, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1324(a)(2)(B)(ii), and to transportation for prostitution, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2421, U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Pursuant to the plea agreement, Gonzalez-McFarlane admitted to illegally bringing in and transporting women from Venezuela and the Dominican Republic in 2018 and 2019 for the purpose of having the women perform commercial sex acts at the Underground Nightclub in St. Thomas, USVI. As part of her plea agreement, Gonzalez-McFarlane admitted to profiting financially from employing twelve different undocumented female aliens to perform commercial sex acts at the Underground Nightclub, one of whom was just seventeen years old. Gonzalez-McFarlane acknowledged and agreed that many of the women were required to perform commercial sex acts at the Underground Nightclub to pay off their smuggling debt. She further admitted that the nightclub had three small rooms in the rear of the club, each having a bed which was used for commercial sex acts.
Gonzalez-McFarlane faces up to a maximum of 55 years imprisonment with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison. She further faces possible deportation or removal from the United States, mandatory sex offender registration, and a minimum term of supervised release of five years and up to life. Her sentencing will be scheduled for a future date.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and assisted and supported by the Virgin Islands Police Department, United States Marshals Service, United States Postal Investigative Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith Edwards and Donna Rainwater.
Captain of Vessel Pleads Guilty to Smuggling $287,660 into St. Thomas Following High-Speed Chase and Apprehension Near Savana IslandRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Arioc Diaz Melendez, resident of Puerto Rico, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller in the District Court and entered a guilty plea to the charge of concealing $287,660.00 in U.S. currency while onboard a vessel outfitted for smuggling in violation of Title 46, United States Code, Section 70503(a)(3).
According to court documents, on September 30, 2019, at approximately 2:00 A.M., Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Marine Unit agents identified a boat traveling without navigational lights north of Savana Island. CBP agents pulled their vessel alongside the 24-foot yola-type vessel that was operating without lights. CBP agents activated their police blue lights and discharged a flare, in an effort to convince the other vessel to yield. When CBP agents attempted to initiate a stop, the other vessel did not yield but instead increased speed. The CBP agents shot one round into one of the engines of the other vessel at which point the vessel decreased speed and stopped. The passenger threw a duffel bag overboard. The bag was recovered by CBP agents and later found to contain $287,660.00 in U.S. currency and a Glock firearm. After CBP agents disabled one of the boat’s motor, they boarded the vessel, and apprehended the captain, who was later identified as Arioc Diaz Melendez, and the passenger, later identified as Jose Carlos Diaz Melendez, of the vessel.
The passenger is expected to plead guilty at a future date.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan Albino.
Previously-Removed Dominican National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Re-Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Jose Fatima Rosario-Remigio was sentenced Wednesday on his conviction for illegal re-entry into the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Robert Molloy sentenced Rosario-Remigio to 24 months imprisonment and a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, Rosario-Remigio is a national of the Dominican Republic who entered the United States without inspection at a place not designated as a point of entry. On October 1, 2019, Rosario-Remigio traveled on a vessel from the British Virgin Islands to St. John, United States Virgin Islands. He then traveled from a beach on St. John to the ferry terminal, where he boarded a ferry traveling to St. Thomas. Rosario-Remigio was previously convicted for the criminal sale of cocaine in New York, and he had been removed from the United States on May 7, 2019.
This case was investigated by Virgin Islands Port Authority, Homeland Security Investigations, and Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Sleeper.
Brother and Sister Defendants Sentenced to Ten and Three Years for Firearms TraffickingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced that Shawn Tyson, 34, and Natasha France, 30, brother and sister, both of St. Thomas, were sentenced yesterday for their roles in a firearms trafficking scheme. Tyson, who was found guilty after a two-day trial of being a felon in possession of ammunition and of mailing firearms, was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. France was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for her convictions of willfully transferring weapons out of state to another unlicensed person, unlawfully mailing firearms, and delivering firearms to a common carrier without written notice.
According to trial testimony, in November 2018, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers intercepted five United States Postal Service (USPS) parcels France had mailed from Atlanta, Georgia to Tyson at the St. Thomas Jet Center in St. Thomas. Collectively, the parcels contained gun parts sufficient to assemble eight ATI Omni Maxx pistols, along with three additional lower receivers and other gun components. In total, nine of the eleven gun lower receivers, all of which constitute firearms under federal law, were ATI Omni Maxx Hybrids. The serial numbers on all eleven of the lower receivers were obliterated, in violation of federal law. USPS surveillance video captured France mailing the parcels on November 10, 2018.
After CBP confiscated the first five parcels, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) intercepted four additional parcels that were en route from Atlanta to defendant Tyson at the St. Thomas Jet Center. Two of the four parcels had been placed in the mail on November 13, 2018 and were addressed from Natasha France to Shawn Tyson. These two parcels contained the parts sufficient to assemble two Mini Draco, 7.62 pistols. The other two parcels were placed in the mail on November 14, 2018 and were addressed from Shawn Tyson to Shawn Tyson. These parcels contained the parts sufficient to assemble three ATI Omni Maxx hybrids, as well as two additional ATI lower receivers. The serial numbers on all seven of the lower receivers contained in the four parcels were obliterated. Evidence at trial proved that defendant Tyson paid for the parcels mailed to/from himself on November 14, 2018.
The trial evidence also established that between November 2, 2018 and November 9, 2018, defendant France and two associates collectively purchased nine ATI Omni Max Hybrid pistols from various gun stores in the greater Atlanta area. Thereafter, on November 11, 2018, France purchased two additional Mini Draco pistols—the same make, model, and quantity of firearms that she mailed to Tyson two days later. On the same date that she mailed the two Mini Dracos, France was captured on a pawn store’s surveillance video staging her arrival time with Tyson and several other associates. Two of the associates purchased a total of five ATI Omni Maxx Hybrids. A store employee recalled Tyson having provided one of the associates with the cash to pay for her purchase.
Evidence at trial also established that on December 13, 2018, while executing a search warrant, agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives recovered .223 caliber, 9 mm caliber, and .40 caliber ammunition from defendant Tyson’s locked bedroom in St. Thomas, and a total of five auto sears from the residence. The sole purpose of an auto sear is to convert a semiautomatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm—in other words, a machinegun. At sentencing, the United States submitted proof that Tyson had illegally purchased and received over one hundred such auto sears.
This case was investigated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, Office of Export Enforcement, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith J. Edwards.
Two Men Sentenced for Possessing over $1 Million Dollars Cash Onboard a Vessel Outfitted for SmugglingRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Abnel Colon and Jose Ernesto Vazquez Colon, both from Puerto Rico, were sentenced last Thursday for possession of more than $1 million in cash onboard a vessel outfitted for smuggling, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
District Court Judge Robert A. Molloy sentenced Abnel Colon to 37 months incarceration, a term of supervised release, and ordered him to pay a $100 special assessment. Jose Ernesto Vazquez Colon was sentenced to 30 months of incarceration, a term of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, on or about September 20, 2019, Customs and Border Protection Marine Unit agents were conducting border security patrols near the west side of St. Thomas, VI. At 10:50 P.M., the agents made radar contact with a vessel traveling eastward toward St. Thomas roughly 3 miles north of Savana Island, within the territorial waters of the United States. When agents intercepted the vessel, it was traveling without lights and failed to stop after agents activated their blue lights. Agents observed two individuals throwing large bags overboard into the water. Agents fired flares in an attempt to have the vessel stop, but the vessel did not stop, and so agents disabled the vessel's motor. CBP agents then boarded the boat and found two individuals on board, Abnel Colon and Jose Ernesto Vazquez Colon. Both were identified as the individuals who were throwing the bags overboard, and Jose Ernesto Vazquez Colon was identified as the pilot. CBP agents later recovered the bags that had been thrown overboard, one of which had been weighted with a dumbbell, and the bags were found to contain over $1,000,000 in United States currency. On board the vessel, which had been rented from a business in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, agents found 3-4 dumbbells with ropes attached, as well as a GPS device, which is generally used to pinpoint the location of jettisoned contraband so that it can be retrieved later.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Sleeper and Nathan Brooks.
St. Thomas Man Apprehended in Red Hook Shopping Center Parking Lot with a 9mm Handgun and Ammunition Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – The United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Jabari Hodge, 30, of St. Thomas, was sentenced to 71 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm followed by a three year term of supervised release.
According to court documents, on October 6, 2019 at approximately 1:10 a.m., VIPD officers approached the defendant, who was sitting in the driver’s seat of his parked vehicle, with the driver’s side door open, in the parking lot of a shopping center in the Red Hook area. Upon approaching, one of the officers noticed the smell of marijuana coming from the vehicle. The officer saw what appeared to be a marijuana on the floorboard near the defendant’s feet. Another VIPD officer noticed a partially-opened bag with what appeared to be a jar containing marijuana inside. The officers informed the defendant that they were going to search the vehicle, at which point the defendant stated, “Just take the weed and let me go.” The officers proceeded to search the vehicle and located a fully loaded, silver and black 9mm Kel tec handgun with one round in the chamber and seven rounds in the magazine.
Prior to his October 6, 2019 apprehension, the defendant had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and was not authorized to possess a firearm under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan A. Albino.
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – Chriss Cepeda, 24, of St. Croix, pled guilty on November 20, 2020, in District Court to one count of Using a Firearm During a Violent Crime, and one count of Carjacking, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
The firearm offense carries a mandatory minimum of 7 years imprisonment, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release up to 5 years. The carjacking offense carries a prison sentence of up to 15 years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release up to 5 years. Sentencing is set for March 24, 2021.
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of September 10, 2017, the defendant, along with two co-defendants, broke into the home of Stephen O’Dea and Kathryn Duncan, while brandishing a firearm. The defendants physically assaulted Mr. O’Dea and threatened to kill the couple while demanding money. The defendants forced the couple at gunpoint into the rear seat of Mr. O’Dea’s Toyota Tacoma pick-up truck and drove to the location where Mr. O’Dea had left his wallet. After obtaining the wallet, the defendants fled in the pick-up truck and Mr. O’Dea’s Jeep Wrangler. In addition to the vehicles, defendants stole $200 in currency, two iPhones valued at $600 each, and an iPad valued at $200.
The Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
Two Columbians Sentenced for Smuggling 1,535 Kilograms of Cocaine Onboard a Semi-Submersible VesselRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Columbian natives Freddy Montano Paz, 30, and Mariano Abregon, 33, were both sentenced before District Judge Robert A. Molloy to 60 months of incarceration on their convictions on conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 1,535 kilograms, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert announced today. Judge Molloy also sentenced Montano Paz and Abregon to five years of supervised release, removal from the United States after serving their sentences, and $100 each for special assessments.
According to court records, on May 10, 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter HAMILTON sighted a self-propelled, semi-submersible vessel in international waters approximately 250 nautical miles Northwest of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. The semi-submercible was navigating on a westerly course in a known drug smuggling area, and displayed no indicia of nationality nor markings, or navigation lights. More than eighty (80%) percent of the vessel was under the waterline. As they approached the semi-submersible, U.S. Coast Guard crew members observed its occupants throwing objects overboard. Four individuals onboard the semi-submersible were later identified as Freddy Montano Paz, Mariano Abregon, Calixto Tumbaco, and Hector Hernandez Saucedo. After recovering the jettisoned packages, U.S. Coast Guard crew members conducted an inspection of the vessel and recovered 40 bales which contained 1,535 kilograms of cocaine. Both Montano Paz and Abregon pleaded guilty to the conspiracy.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Coast Guard and DEA, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Delia L. Smith.
Second Virgin Islands Woman Convicted in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
St. Croix, USVI – After a five-day trial, a federal jury today found Patricia Henry, age 52, of St. Croix, guilty of conspiracy to defraud the United States, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced. Henry faces up to 10 years in prison on the conviction plus a fine of up to $250,000.
According to evidence presented at trial, Henry, her daughter Phiona Henry, and others participated in a scheme to unlawfully obtain money from the United States treasury by fraudulently acquiring federal income tax refunds during the period from 2010 to 2013. The scheme involved the acquisition of personal identifying information used to electronically file falsified tax returns for tax years 2009 through 2012. Henry aided others in the filing of tax returns in individuals’ true names and actual social security numbers but falsified the individuals’ income earned, tax withholding amounts, credits, and other information, and thereby claimed refunds to which they were not entitled. Persons involved in the scheme designated bank accounts for receipt of the refunds, which, once received, they subsequently withdrew. As a result of the scheme, three tax returns were filed in the name of Patricia Henry. On those returns, a total of $29,295 was designated to Patricia Henry’s and Phiona Henry’s bank accounts. Evidence at trial indicated that $8,918 was deposited into Patricia Henry’s account and $10,068 was deposited into Phiona Henry’s account. An additional $106,382 was also deposited into Phiona’s bank account.
Phiona Henry entered a guilty plea in this case on May 3, 2019 and is pending sentencing.
The prosecution of this fraud scheme is the result of years of investigative work by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, which identified and dismantled a massive stolen identity refund fraud scheme perpetrated in the Virgin Islands and elsewhere.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alphonso Andrews, Jr. and Melissa Ortiz.
St. Croix Man Arrested on Charges of Conspiracy and Attempted Possession of Methamphetamine and Marijuana with Intent to DistributeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Jason Lee Current, 43, of St. Croix, appeared before Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon for an Initial Appearance after his arrest by Homeland Security Investigations Special Agents on the charges of Conspiracy to Possess a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute and Attempted Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute.
According to court documents, on November 5, 2020, Custom and Border Protection officers in San Juan, PR, intercepted a mail parcel that contained 120 grams of Methamphetamine and 341 grams of Marijuana. The package was mailed from California and addressed to Current. On November 10, 2020, the parcel was prepared by law enforcement for a controlled pickup. The controlled substances were replaced with representative facsimiles (sham), and the parcel was outfitted with a tracking device. That same day, Current picked up the parcel at a postal facility. Law enforcement surveillance monitored the pick-up, but the defendant eluded the tailing vehicles after detecting the tracking device. The defendant was subsequently taken into custody on November 13, 2020.
Current has an outstanding felony warrant from the state of Hawaii for failure to appear. As a result, the Government moved to detain Current pending his trial in this matter. A Detention Hearing is set for November 19, 2020.
The case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert reminds the public that an arrest warrant is merely a formal charging document and is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
St. Croix Native Who Fled After a St. Croix Traffic Stop Pleads Guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Malachi Benjamin, 25, pleaded guilty before Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, United States Attorney Gretchen Shappert announced today. Benjamin remains detained on separate drug conspiracy charges. His sentencing date will occur at a later date.
According to court records, on June 14, 2018, Virgin Islands Police Department (“VIPD”) officers conducted a traffic stop in Upper Love, Frederiksted, of a vehicle operated by Glenn David with Benjamin in the front passenger seat. After the traffic stop, officers approached Benjamin to advise him that he was a person of interest in recent double homicide on St. Croix, and Benjamin responded by immediately fleeing the scene on foot.
After Benjamin fled the scene, David, the driver and owner of the vehicle, granted officers permission to search his vehicle. A forensic team of VIPD officers later recovered three pre-packaged baggies of suspected cocaine hidden inside of a Pepperidge Farm container. The suspected cocaine weighed approximately 2 ounces and was recovered from the passenger side floor of the vehicle where Benjamin had been seated. A field test of the contents of the baggies yielded a positive test result for cocaine. The forensic team also collected buccal swabs from cocaine baggies hidden inside of the Pepperidge Farm container and submitted the swabs for DNA analysis. When compared with DNA previously collected from Benjamin, a DNA laboratory confirmed that Benjamin was the source of DNA collected from the cocaine wrappings.
This case was investigated by DEA and the VIPD, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Delia L. Smith and Donna Rainwater.
Dominican Republic National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Re-entering United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI- United States Attorney, Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Eilin Castillo Montano of the Dominican Republic pled guilty to illegally reentering the United States after being ordered deported and removed.
According to court documents, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation officer received information from a credible source of information that an individual who was previously deported from the United States was back in St. Thomas.
Criminal and immigration records checks revealed that on April 19, 2016, Eilin Castillo Montano was removed from the United States by immigration officials to his native country of the Dominican Republic, following a federal conviction for possessing a firearm by an illegal alien on August 31, 2015, in the United States District Court of the Virgin Islands.
On August 10, 2020 an ICE deportation officer found the defendant in St. Thomas and took him into custody. He was transported to the ICE office where he confessed to illegally reentering the United States.
The defendant will be sentenced at a later date.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement.
Airline Passenger Arrested at Cyril E. King Airport for Having 5 Kilos of Marijuana in Carry-On SuitcaseRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced that a complaint has been filed against Christopher Lloyd Turnbull, charging him with possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Turnbull made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller on Thursday, November 12, 2020.
According to the affidavit submitted in support of the complaint, upon Turnbull’s arrival to the Cyril E. King Airport on November 11, 2020, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers directed Turnbull to secondary inspection. Upon searching a black carry-on suitcase in Turnbull’s possession, which Turnbull admitted was his, CBP officers discovered approximately eight different sealed packages containing a green leafy substance that tested positive for the presence of marijuana. The parcels had a combined field weight of approximately 5 kilograms.
Turnbull, who originally departed from the Ronald Reagan airport in Washington, D.C., claimed that while he was waiting at the gate for his connecting flight in Charlotte, an unknown man approached him and offered him $15,000 to transport the black carry-on suitcase to St. Thomas. Turnbull also claimed that a friend of his (whose last name he did not know) paid for his one-way ticket to St. Thomas. Turnbull had no accommodations reserved for his stay in St. Thomas and did not know when he would be returning.
This case is being investigated by Customs and Border Protection, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of the Virgin Islands.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Man Arrested for Stealing over $300,000 from His FatherRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Lenroy Ravalier, Jr. was arrested for bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, money laundering, and related charges.
According to the Indictment filed in the case, Ravalier forged checks in his father’s name totaling over $300,000, in order to obtain those funds for himself. Ravalier then moved much of the money through various bank accounts in order to conceal the unlawful activity.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan Brooks.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Bank Employee Arrested for Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Natasha Seetaram was arrested for bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and related charges.
According to the Indictment filed in the case, Seetaram formerly worked at the St. Thomas branch of a bank identified by the initials “B.P.” in the charging document. She is accused of using her position at the bank to issue debit cards in the names of bank customers without such customers’ knowledge or consent. Seetaram then used the cards for her own personal benefit, making ATM withdrawals and purchases first in St. Thomas and later in Jacksonville, FL when she relocated her residence there.
This case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nathan Brooks and Kyle Payne.
An indictment is merely a formal charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possessing and Transporting a Firearm with Obliterated Serial Number and Fleeing the Customs Facility Without AuthorizationRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney, Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Javier Enrique Lima of St. Thomas was sentenced yesterday after pleading guilty to possessing and transporting a firearm with an obliterated serial number and fleeing a designated customs facility without authorization.
According to the documents filed in this case, on February 3, 2020, defendant presented himself to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) in the Red Hook ferry terminal after returning from Tortola, British Virgin Islands. A CBP Officer working the x-ray machine noticed a firearm in the backpack Lima brought with him, and called for another officer. Lima immediately fled the facility on foot, leaving his backpack. The backpack contained a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Law enforcement agents made multiple efforts to locate Lima, but were unable to do so. He later turned himself in and pled guilty.
United States District Court Judge Robert A. Molloy sentenced Lima to thirty (30) months imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release on one count and twelve (12) months imprisonment followed by one year of supervised release on one count; to be run concurrently.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security.
Narcotics Smugglers Sentenced after Being Stopped with 1,355 pounds of Marijuana on VesselRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney, Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Cristian Valencia-Mendoza of Colombia, was sentenced after being found guilty by a jury of Conspiracy to Possess and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute on Board a Vessel Subject to the Jurisdiction of the United States.
According to court filings, the defendant was on board a go-fast style vessel that was intercepted by a United States Coast Guard (USCG) cutter while on routine patrol. The USCG first sighted the go-fast vessel on October 18, 2019, at approximately 45 nautical miles north of Malpelo Island, Columbia. The vessel did not have any display indicating its nationality. The USCG boarded the vessel and successfully seized 21 bales of marijuana, which weighed approximately 1,355 pounds, and arrested the two individuals on board. Defendant later confessed to being hired to assist the boat captain in delivering the drugs. A federal jury returned guilty verdicts on January 22, 2020.
United States District Court Judge Robert A. Molloy sentenced Mendoza to thirty-three (33) months imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release.
The captain of the vessel, Centeno A. Hansel-Andres, of the Dominican Republic, previously pled guilty and was sentenced to thirty seven (37) months in prison.
This case was investigated by the United States Coast Guard and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Multiple Passengers Arrested for Having Marijuana in Carry-On Bags in St. Thomas Upon Arrival at Cyril E. King AirportRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI –United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that two complaints have been filed against Kharim Moore, Trevon Richards and Dennis Weekes for possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Moore, Richards and Weekes made their initial appearances in federal court Thursday, November 5th, in St. Thomas.
According to the two affidavits filed in the cases, Moore was stopped at the Cyril E. King airport after arriving in St. Thomas from Atlanta, GA. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers then searched his carry-on bag and found approximately three kilograms of marijuana. Richards and Weekes arrived at the Cyril E. King airport after arriving in St. Thomas from Atlanta, GA on a separate flight. CBP officers searched both their carry-on bags and found marijuana. Richards’ bag contained approximately three kilograms of marijuana. Weekes’ bag contained approximately 1.5 kilograms of marijuana.
These cases are being investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and prosecuted by United States Attorney’s Office for the Virgin Islands.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Woman Arrested for Harboring and Importing Multiple Aliens for ProstitutionRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced that a complaint has been filed charging Ramona Rivera Luna with alien harboring and importation of aliens for immoral purposes.
According to court documents filed in the case, Ramona Rivera Luna, a citizen of the Dominican Republic, was arrested on Friday, October 30, 2020. Earlier that day, federal agents executed a search warrant at The Embers Guest House, which the defendant owns and operated for over 15 years. Federal agents discovered seven female aliens from the Dominican Republic and Venezuela whom the defendant is alleged to have smuggled into St. Thomas by others, after having lured the females to work for her with the false offer of legitimate bartending and server jobs. Once the women arrived in St. Thomas, they were forced to engage in commercial sex acts, with the proceeds used to pay off their respective smuggling debts, which ranged from $8,000 to $15,000, and to pay the defendant $200 a week for rent. The women had to obtain permission and pay to leave the premises for any reason, including merely running errands such as to the grocery store, paying a $150 exit fee. Court documents allege that the defendant maintained her control over the women with threats of possible violence and near constant surveillance—the premises were equipped with video cameras, all of which were connected to a DVR found in the defendant’s bedroom.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Agency, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith Edwards.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Cyril E. King Airport Traveler Sentenced for Undeclared Firearm in LuggageRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Wayne Smith was sentenced today on his conviction for causing a firearm to be present in a federal facility, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
Smith previously plead guilty to the charge on June 24, 2020. In his plea agreement, he admitted that, on March 21, 2020, at the Cyril E. King airport, he was a ticketed passenger on a Jet Blue Airline flight and checked luggage in his son’s name that contained a Ruger LCP pistol and an ammunition magazine. Although he was aware that the luggage contained the firearm and ammunition magazine, he did not notify Jet Blue Airlines or the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) that the luggage contained a firearm. The Transportation Security Administration discovered the firearm at the federal security checkpoint.
District Court Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller sentenced Smith to an 18 month term of probation and a $5,000 fine.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, and the Transportation Security Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Sleeper.
Marijuana, an AR-15 pistol and Ammunition Found in St. Thomas Car after Traffic Accident: Driver Surrenders Himself to Federal AuthoritiesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI –United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that Kahlid Blyden surrendered himself to federal authorities Monday morning for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of an unauthorized firearm and ammunition.
According to the affidavit filed in the case, Blyden was involved in an automobile accident on August 21, 2020. A responding officer smelled a strong odor of marijuana coming from the car driven by Blyden. Officers searched the car and found a backpack with a large plastic bag inside containing marijuana, an AR-15 pistol and a box of ammunition. Blyden attempted to flee while being placed under arrest, but was detained after a brief chase. He posted bond in Territorial Court and the case was transferred to the United States Attorneys’ Office on October 9, 2020. A court date is set for November 4, 2020, for a preliminary hearing before Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller.
This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by United States Attorney’s Office of the Virgin Islands.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Guyanese National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Warren Michael Whyte, a citizen of Guyana, appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Ruth Miller in the District Court and entered a guilty plea to the charge of illegal re-entry of removed alien. He faces up to ten years in federal prison.
According to Court documents, on March 14, 2020, an Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) Deportation Officer received information from a credible source of information (SOI) that an individual who was previously deported from the United States was working in the Smith Bay area in St. Thomas, V.I. at an auto repair shop called "Auto World". Criminal and immigration records checks were completed and revealed that on June 18, 2002, Warren Whyte was ordered removed from the United States by the Immigration & Naturalization Service to his native country of Guyana as an aggravated felon due to his prior felony conviction.
Court records show that on March 17, 2020, at approximately 7:00 a.m., an ICE officer observed an individual who appeared to be the person identified in the picture as Warren Whyte. Officer Williams conducted a vehicle stop on VI Route 40 of the vehicle the individual was driving. During the encounter, Whyte freely admitted that his name was Warren Whyte. He was taken into custody and transported to ICE office where his fingerprints revealed a positive match to his prior record of deportation.
This case was investigated by the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan A. Albino.
DEA announces 19th National Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON & PUERTO RICO – DEA is holding its 19th National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, Oct. 24 at locations across The United States Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. The nationwide event aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the public about the potential for abuse of medications. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.
Collection sites will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and regulations in order to maintain the safety of all participants and local law enforcement.
“The initiative – now in its tenth year – addresses a vital public safety and public health issue,” said DEA Acting Administrator Timothy Shea. “Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse, and abuse. Together with our partners, we are not only holding National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, but offering other ways to dispose of unwanted, unused, and expired prescription medications.”
DEA Caribbean Division Special Agent in Charge said, “Every Take Back event is significant, on October 2019 over 3,300 lbs were collected in Puerto Rico and the USVIs. Due to the pandemic, many physical or emotional illnesses have increased the chances of accumulating prescription drugs in our homes and workplaces. Do not become a dealer without knowing it. Dispose of all medicines this Saturday or contact the FDA and EPA to learn how to dispose of them appropriately any day of the year.”
“We are so grateful that DEA continues to provide opportunities for Virgin Islanders to dispose of unused prescription drugs,” said Gretchen C.F. Shappert, United States Attorney for the Virgin Islands. “Removing these drugs from our homes makes our communities safer.”
DEA wants the public to learn other ways they can dispose of unwanted prescription drugs without having to leave their homes. Both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency have tips on how to safely dispose of drugs at home.
DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. DEA will also accept vape pens or other e-cigarette devices from individual consumers, only after the batteries are removed from the devices. If the battery cannot be removed, individual consumers can check with large electronic chain stores who may accept the vape pen or e-cigarette devices for proper disposal. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs cannot be dropped off. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.
Prescription Drug Take Back Locations, Saturday, Oct. 24th:
On St. Croix: Kingshill and Gallows Bay Post Offices, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
On St. Thomas: Sugar Estate Post Office, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
For more information on DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, and to find a collection site near you, visit www.deatakeback.com.
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St. Croix Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – The United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that on October 21, 2020, Judge Robert Molloy sentenced Collin Gomes, 27, of St. Croix, to 78 months in prison for possession of child pornography and five years of supervised release. Gomes was also ordered to pay special assessments in the amounts of $100 and $5,000, respectively. The Court also ordered $3,000 restitution to each of the three victims.
According to court documents, on or about August 16, 2018, September 6, 2018 and October 22, 2018, a Grand Prairie, Texas police detective was conducting an online investigation on the BitTorrent network for offenders sharing child pornography. BitTorrent is a communication system for peer-to-peer file sharing that enables users to distribute data and electronic files over the Internet in a decentralized manner. Files are shared on the BitTorrent network via use of “torrents,” which provide addresses identifying computers that can send portions of a requested file. With the assistance of a torrent file, the user can download small portions of the original file.
As a result of information collected by Grand Prairie, Texas law enforcement, officers initiated an investigation for a device on the IP address used by the defendant, because it was associated with a torrent with a particular infohash (an SHA-1 hash value of the data describing the files within the torrent). The torrent files referenced a number of files, at least one of which was identified as child pornography. On each of the dates referenced above, a download of files was successfully completed from the device that the defendant’s IP address was making available. Officers confirmed that each download contained child pornography.
On December 14, 2018, HSI executed a search warrant on the defendant’s residence on St. Croix. Agents explained to the defendant what they were searching for and advised him of his rights. The defendant waived his rights and agreed to speak to the agents. They asked if he viewed, downloaded and made available for download any files containing images or videos depicting child pornography and the defendant said “yes.” The defendant also told the agents he had an HP computer on which he had child pornography and that he had been downloading child pornography since 2011 and collected thousands of
images and videos. He stated that there was approximately one and a half Terabytes of material. HIS agents located thousands of child pornography images and videos on the defendant’s computer and external hard drives.This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
Wanted Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement and of Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Robert Black, 49, of St. Croix, appeared before Magistrate Judge George W. Cannon in District Court and entered a guilty plea to the charges of Attempted Coercion and Enticement and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Sentencing is set for February 19, 2021.
According to court documents, Homeland Security Investigations initiated a law enforcement operation investigating online predators seeking to exploit children in St. Croix. Agents working online in an undercover capacity created personas in online forums and applications designed to facilitate interactions between individuals. On August 12, 2019, Black initiated contact with an undercover agent on the application Grindr by sending a picture of his naked torso and another of his genitals. A dialogue ensured during which the undercover agent stated that he was 14 years old. Later the defendant discussed the sexual activity that he wished to participate in with the undercover agent. A meet was arranged for August 16, 2019, at which time Black was arrested on the Boardwalk in Christiansted.
Black is a convicted sex offender from Missouri who failed to register locally when he moved to the Virgin Islands in 2018. In 2000, he was convicted in Missouri of Statutory Sodomy in the 2nd degree. As a result of this conviction, he was classified as a Tier 3 Offender who must register every 90 days for his lifetime under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act. Black has a parole violation warrant from Missouri for a sex offender registration violation and has an outstanding trafficking in methamphetamine parole violation warrant from Georgia.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
St. Thomas Man Pleads Guilty in Connection with Bank Robbery and Shooting in Scotia Bank IncidentRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Melik Petersen pleaded guilty to first degree assault with the intent to commit robbery.
According to court documents filed in the case, on the morning of September 11, 2019, Ranger American Armored Services guards were attempting to pick up $951,000 from a Scotia Bank branch in the Altona area in St. Thomas. Petersen and another individual, both armed and masked, attempted to rob the guards and a gunfight ensued, during which one of the guards suffered a bullet wound in his leg. The two assailants and the getaway driver then fled the scene without the money.
Petersen faces up to 15 years in prison and will be sentenced at a later date. This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Sleeper and Nathan Brooks.
U.S. Attorney Shappert Announces Election Day Program to Oversee Any Complaints of Election Fraud of Voting Rights ConcernsRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Alphonso Andrews will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 3, 2020, general election. AUSA Andrews has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Virgin Islands District and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Shappert said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination. Every vote must be counted in accordance with the law. The Department of Justice will always act appropriately to protect the integrity of the election process.”
“The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open through Election Day.”
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their consent or without their approval. Federal law also provides protections for the rights of voters, and ensures that citizens can vote without intimidation or harassment. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal election law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or illiteracy).
The voting franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt the franchise are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights concerns during the voting period that ends on November 3, 2020, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, United States Attorney Shappert stated that AUSA/DEO Alphonso Andrews will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. He can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (340) 773-3920 or (340) 344-0503.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office will have agents on St. Thomas and St. Croix available to respond and who can be reached by the public at (340) 777-3363.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can also be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by phone at (800) 253-3931 or by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/.
Please note, however, that in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately, before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
United States Attorney Shappert said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
St. Thomas Man Charged with Robbery of a Jewelry StoreRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced that a complaint has been filed charging Jamari Benjamin with interference with commerce by threats or violence and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
According to the affidavit filed in this case, on Saturday, September 19, 2020, a white Suzuki Vitara arrived in the area of Gems & Gold Corner jewelry store located on the waterfront near Veteran’s Drive, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Two men wearing masks, got out of the white Suzuki Vitara with firearms and entered Gems & Gold Corner jewelry store. A third person remained with the vehicle as the driver. The two masked men brandished the firearms and threatened the jewelry store employees and others. One of the masked men physically assaulted a jewelry store employee using the firearm, striking the employee’s head. The two masked men broke the jewelry showcases and took jewelry from the store. They then retreated from the jewelry store, got back into the white Suzuki Vitara, and were driven away from the area of the jewelry store by the same driver. The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) initiated an investigation into the robbery, collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and developing sources of information to provide investigative leads. This led VIPD to interview Jamari Benjamin, who admitted to participating in the robbery.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan Albino.
A complaint is merely a charging document, and it is not evidence of guilt. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Thomas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison After Discharging a .45 Handgun into a BusinessRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – The United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today that Arnold Malone, 44, of St. Thomas, was sentenced to 33 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on August 22, 2019, Virgin Islands Police Department officers responded to a call that an individual had discharged a firearm on St. Thomas.
When the officers arrived, they were unable to locate the man. Moments later, Central Dispatch advised the officers that the man had returned and discharged his firearm inside of a business establishment after he was denied entry by the manager. The officers traveled to the business establishment, and the manager advised them that the man was in the alley.
Officers made contact with the man, who was later identified as the defendant, Arnold Malone, and asked to speak with him in reference to the shooting. Officers asked the defendant if he had a license to possess a firearm in the United States Virgin Islands. The defendant responded that he did not. Officers conducted a pat down of the defendant and discovered a Lallamar Minimax X45 .45 caliber, with an extended magazine containing nine (9) rounds.
Prior to August 22, 2019, the defendant had been convicted of attempted first degree murder and carrying/use of a dangerous weapon during the commission of a violent crime. He was not authorized to carry a firearm under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Juan A. Albino.
Local Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Board Flight at Cyril E. King International Airport with a Kilo of Cocaine Strapped to His WaistRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced that earlier today, Miguel Batista, Jr. pled guilty to possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) with intent to distribute in federal court. Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2021.
According to court records, on October 12, 2019, Miguel Batista, Jr. was selected for inspection by Customs and Border Protection agents during routine screening at the Cyril E. King International Airport. During the inspection, agents found a vacuum-sealed package of cocaine weighing approximately 1.07 kilograms taped to Batista’s torso which was concealed under a compression shirt and another layer of clothing.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection, and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s office for the district of the Virgin Islands.
Former Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Officer Sentenced for Solicitation of BribeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert for the District of the Virgin Islands announced today that Robert Defreitas, formerly a sworn law enforcement officer with the Virgin Islands Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs (DLCA), was sentenced to 41 months in prison for Travel Act Bribery and Solicitation of a Bribe by a Public Employee. Defreitas was convicted of these offenses following a jury trial in December 2019.
According to the evidence presented at trial, in August 2018 Defreitas assisted with a DLCA inspection of a St. Thomas business, during which time he discovered that one of the company’s workers had not entered the country by legal means. Defrietas attempted to use this information against the victim. The victim later recorded a phone call in which Defreitas sought sexual favors in return for not reporting the vicitm’s immigration status, and this recording was played for the jury during the prosecution’s case-in-chief.
This case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nathan Brooks.
St. Croix Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor for Illegal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – On Wednesday, October 14, 2020, Rashead Gerard, 23, of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge George Cannon, Jr., to attempted coercion and enticement for illegal sexual activity, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to the plea agreement filed with the court, on or about August12, 2019, Defendant responded to an ad posted online. A Homeland Security Investigations agent posed as the father of a female minor, who was looking for a tour guide to show her around for an hour or two. The defendant asked what the minor wanted to do and the agent replied “anything that you’re up for.” The agent told the defendant that the minor was 14 and the defendant told the agent he would pay for 30 minutes to engage in sexual activity with the minor. They agreed to meet at the Fort in Frederiksted around 5:30 p.m. The defendant was arrested when he went to the agreed-upon location and condoms and money were found in his car.
Gerard faces a maximum sentence of 20 years and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for February 12, 2021.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rhonda Williams-Henry.
St. Croix Man Confronted in a Domestic Dispute Pleads Guilty to Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – Deshawn Gonsalves, 26, of St. Croix, pled guilty in District Court to one count of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced.
According to court documents, on October 31, 2018, officers with the Virgin Islands Police Department responded to an apparent domestic dispute and 911 call at the Lorraine Village Apartments outside of Frederiksted. Upon their interaction with Gonsalves, he admitted that he possessed a firearm and ammunition in his vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed a loaded Glock .45 caliber handgun, 2 additional magazines, 77 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, and approximately 98 grams of marihuana packaged in plastic baggies and vials.
Gonsalves was previously convicted in Superior Court in 2014 of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm.
Gonsalves faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Sentencing is set for February 12, 2021.The case was investigated by the Virgin Islands Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Huston.
United States Attorney Shappert Announces USVI Efforts to Address Violent Crime: Project Guardian and Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
St. Thomas, USVI – United States Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert announced today continuing efforts by federal and territorial law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute violent crime in the Territory, as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Guardian initiative and Project Safe Neighborhoods. “On April 14, 2020, Attorney General William Barr instructed each of the 93 United States Attorney’s Offices to implement Project Guardian, the Department’s initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws,” U.S. Attorney Shappert said. “Specifically, Project Guardian focuses on the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of gun crimes. Project Safe Neighborhoods includes our collaboration and partnership with members of our community.”
“ In September, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) released its 2019 edition of Crime in the United States, which showed that violent crime decreased nationwide for the third consecutive year,” Shappert said. “After decreases in both 2017 and 2018, the violent crime rate dropped an additional one percent during the year and the property crime rate decreased 4.5 percent. In 2019, there were an estimated 1,203,808 violent crimes and an estimated violent crime rate of 366.7 violent crimes per 100,000 inhabitants. This represents a one percent decrease from the prior year. The FBI’s Uniform Crime Report (UCR) data indicates that the violent crime rate dropped 0.7 percent in 2017 and 3.5 percent in 2018 from the prior years.”
“In the U.S. Virgin Islands, however, violent, gun-related crime continues to threaten public safety.” Shappert noted that the U.S. Virgin Islands, with a population of roughly 103,000 people, has averaged 40 homicides a year during the past several years, and has already exceeded that number for 2020. “We are continuing to work closely with our federal and local partners to help turn this situation around. Some of what we do is known to the public, and some of what we do must remain confidential until prosecutions are initiated. We are encouraged by increased levels of coordination among law enforcement agencies and by intelligence information provided to us by citizens in our community.”
Shappert cited examples of Project Guardian initiatives focused on public safety:
I. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) Firearms Trafficking Initiative
ATF is continuing to support firearms tracing of crime guns in the USVI. Firearms tracing is the systematic research of the history of a particular firearm, from the manufacturer or importer through the wholesale Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) and retailer FFL to the first retail purchaser, in an effort to identify persons involved in gun crimes and potential gun traffickers. A total of 370 firearms were submitted for tracing from the U.S. Virgin Islands to ATF between January 1, 2017, and September 30, 2020. More than 90 percent of firearms traces were handguns, with the majority of those being traced to Florida, Georgia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Beginning the week of October 19, 2020, ATF Special Agents and a civilian ATF firearms tracing expert will commence a review and reconciliation of the VIPD firearms evidence vaults on both St. Thomas and St. Croix. Firearms in the VIPD vaults will be cataloged and submitted to eTrace, an internet-based application that tracks the purchase and/or use history of firearms involved in violent crimes. Upon conclusion of the reconciliation and submission of firearms into eTrace, ATF’s Violent Crime Analysis Branch (VCAB) will conduct a complete Firearm Trace Study. Results of the trace study will be added to the ATF Crime Gun Intelligence (CGI) arsenal.
ATF’s CGI encompasses all available information gleaned from firearms tracing, NIBIN, Gunshot Detection Technology, local intelligence, crime analysis and social media. CGI leads will be used to assist in identifying offenders who are illegally purchasing or transferring firearms and the offenders who use firearms to commit violent crimes. CGI focuses analysis and criminal intelligence to precisely identify and target criminal shooters and their sources of crime guns. The CGI will distribute the intelligence information to law enforcement, so that they can identify the source of crime guns and track down criminals before those criminals can commit additional violent acts. Timely information-sharing enables investigators to access and respond to information quickly, leading to the apprehension of suspects.
ATF has also purchased and delivered two bullet trap devices to the USVI for use by ATF, other federal law enforcement agencies and by VIPD. A bullet trap is a device designed to apprehend and collect projectiles fired at as a shooting range, to prevent over-penetrations and stray shots. The bullet traps will be used by law enforcement on St. Thomas and St. Croix to safely test-fire crime guns so that their fired cartridge casings can be submitted into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), a national database of digital images of spent bullets and cartridge cases that are found at crime scenes or test-fired from confiscated weapons. NIBIN allows for comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms.
In addition, ATF plans to provide firearms identification training to federal and local law enforcement in the USVI, the BVI and Puerto Rico in FY2021.
II. Virgin Islands U.S. Attorney’s Office Initiatives (VI-USAO)
Prosecutors and staff in the VI-USAO continue to prioritize federal firearms prosecutions and to work closely with law enforcement to develop investigations of firearms trafficking in the Territory.
The VI-USAO has continued to provide virtual training opportunities for federal and local law enforcement in the Territory during the COVID-19 pandemic. These trainings have included roll-call training for VIPD officers regarding federal firearms offenses.
In support of its public outreach, the VI-USAO has developed Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) posters and training materials regarding domestic violence to increase community awareness and encourage information-sharing.
The VI-USAO has also produced a public service announcement (PSA) titled “U.S. Virgin Islands Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and Crime Stoppers PSA”. The video is accessible on YouTube (https://youtu.be/9FEUfmCEgAI) and emphasizes the importance of, “if you see something, say something.” The PSA was created to encourage more community intelligence sharing with law enforcement in the USVI.
Prosecutors in the VI-USAO continue to prioritize federal firearms prosecutions and to work closely with law enforcement to develop investigations of firearms trafficking in the Territory.
Representatives of the VI-USAO meet regularly with community representatives, service organizations, and community leaders to discuss strategies for increased community engagement and public safety initiatives.
For more information on Project Guardian, see Department of Justice Project Guardian. To Report Illegal Firearms Activity: 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867), [email protected].