Paul Jack, a national of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, has been apprehended after a year of criminal activities that terrorized the Virgin Gorda community.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed his capture following a joint operation led by Virgin Gorda detectives on Saturday, January 4, 2025.
Jack, who was previously convicted and deported from the British Virgin Islands in 2021 for offenses related to Proceeds of Criminal Conduct, re-entered the Territory illegally. He had been hiding in heavily wooded areas between Crooks Bay and Copper Mine while being linked to a series of burglaries, robberies, and other crimes that caused significant fear and disruption among residents.
Jack now faces multiple charges, including: Illegal Entry, Criminal Trespass, Armed with an Offensive Weapon, Assault on Police, Resisting Arrest and Aggravated Burglary.
The RVIPF has also launched further investigations into his alleged involvement in other crimes committed across Virgin Gorda.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool praised the efforts of the officers who brought Jack to justice.
“The arrest of Paul Jack is a major breakthrough in ensuring the safety and security of Virgin Gorda residents and visitors. His actions have caused distress in the community, and we are committed to bringing him and others involved in these crimes to justice,” Vanterpool stated. “The RVIPF remains resolute in our efforts to make the British Virgin Islands a safer place for all.”
In connection with the spate of crimes, the RVIPF also charged another suspect, 29-year-old Devonte Joseph, who has no fixed address. Joseph faces charges of: Robbery, Two counts of Burglary, Aggravated Burglary.
Both men have been linked to break-ins targeting both unoccupied and occupied villas, escalating fears among Virgin Gorda residents.
The RVIPF extended gratitude to the public for their cooperation in the ongoing fight against crime and urged residents to remain vigilant.
“We encourage residents to secure their homes and properties and report any suspicious activity to the police,” the statement read.