The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) made significant strides in its fight against violent crime with the arrest of four individuals following a search operation in Cane Garden Bay on Friday, January 24, 2025. The operation resulted in the discovery of two firearms and multiple rounds of ammunition.
Charged in connection with the illegal firearms are 22-year-old Kadeem Callwood of Cane Garden Bay, 22-year-old Kaheem Callwood also of Cane Garden Bay, 22-year-old Jerry Smith of the United States Virgin Islands and a 17-year-old minor also of Cane Garden Bay.
All four individuals face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives. In addition to these charges, Jerry Smith has been charged with overstaying his landing permit.
While the Callwoods were granted bail of $60,000 each, their lack of surety led to their remand to His Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut. The 17-year-old male was also granted bail, set at $50,000. Jerry Smith, however, has been remanded. All four are scheduled to appear in Magistrate’s Court on March 5, 2025.
In a statement, Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool expressed her satisfaction with the operation, praising the professionalism of the officers involved. She highlighted the importance of removing firearms from the streets as a key step in reducing violent crime.
“The removal of these firearms from our streets is a significant step in making our communities safer,” Vanterpool said. “I commend the officers for their professionalism and dedication.”
The RVIPF continues to encourage members of the public to report any suspicious activity. Confidential tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS), or directly to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.