The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has charged 36-year-old South African national Lesley Joubert with manslaughter following a tragic marine accident that claimed the life of Stephen Cross Jr., a 39-year-old resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
The incident occurred on the evening of November 22 near Saba Rock.
Preliminary investigations revealed that a 21-foot RHIB collided with a dinghy, leaving Cross critically injured. He was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic and later to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Joubert, arrested in connection with the case, appeared at the Magistrate’s Court and was granted $120,000 cash bail. He is required to return to court on February 11, 2025.
The RVIPF continues its investigation into the circumstances of the collision and has assured the public of thorough inquiries.
They also extended condolences to Cross’s family and loved ones.