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$100,000 reward offered for info in Francis’ murder
Cornel Melbourne Francis also known as ‘Trouble’ lived at Nottingham Estate on the eastern end of Tortola.
Around 8pm on the evening on Thursday, 9 May 2013, officers were called to the Stickette at Long Look where they found the body of Francis with multiple gunshot wounds. Police investigations revealed that a single gunman came from behind the Stickette, walked up to Francis who was seated with friends and shot him repeatedly. The person then ran off in the direction of Little Dix Hill. This person has been described as tall, slim, wearing dark clothing, with a hoodie over his head and a bandana over his lower face.
A reward of up to $100,000 is offered for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the person or persons responsible for the murder of Cornel Melbourne Francis.
Lesser rewards will also be paid for information that assists the police in advancing the investigation. All reward payment amounts will be decided upon by the Commissioner of Police.
People with information are asked to contact detectives from the Major Crime Team on 468 2718.
The Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Alwin James noted that the RVIPF hopes to generate greater interest in the case. “There is somebody, somewhere within the community with the missing pieces needed for us to detect this crime and bring some measure of peace to the victim’s family. This was not a random act of violence; it was a cold and calculated killing. The person or persons responsible for this murder need to be brought to justice.”
“A $100,000 is a substantial reward and provides the needed incentive to encourage persons to come forward and provide information that will advance the investigation. The shooter had to get to the scene and had to get away afterwards. This would involve the use of a vehicle. We are asking if anyone saw a vehicle that seemed out of place that night to please call or come forward and give that information to the Major Crime Team. All information provided will be treated with the strictest confidence,” the Acting Deputy added.
The investigating detectives suspect that information that would advance the investigation may be held by those with knowledge of the criminal community. The Witness Protection Scheme introduced under the Justice Protection Act 2011 is available to those who wish to come forward. The scheme is a very important tool in the fight against violent organised crime and has assisted significantly in the successful conviction of a number of criminals. Through the scheme, all the tools are available for protection to those who want to come forward and do the right thing.
The RVIPF continues to keep the family of Cornel Melbourne Francis updated on the investigation through an assigned family liaison officer.
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