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USVI Top CoP targeted in federal probe; Phones seized

-grand Jury set for June 24, 2024
USVI Police Commissioner Ray Martinez. Photo: VI Consrtium
VI CONSORTIUM

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, St Thomas, USVI - The Federal Bureau of Investigation earlier this week delivered a target letter to V.I. Police Department Commissioner Ray Martinez and confiscated the cellphones of Mr. Martinez and his wife, the Consortium can confirm.

A target letter from the FBI is a formal notification issued by the U.S. Department of Justice, typically through a federal prosecutor, indicating that the recipient is under investigation in connection with a federal crime. This letter not only informs the individual that they are a "target" of the investigation but also may detail the nature of the investigation and specify the criminal activities the person is allegedly linked to. Essentially, it signifies substantial evidence implicating the recipient in illegal activities, prompting them to consider legal representation.

A grand jury is scheduled for June 24th, the Consortium has learned, at which Commissioner Martinez will be present with his legal team to defend against the federal charges.

The matter is related to a St. Thomas-based firm that was contracted by the V.I. Police Department. After receiving the contract from the VIPD, signed by the police commissioner, the firm provided Mr. Martinez with funds to complete work on a restaurant project he has been working on for quite some time, according to people with intimate knowledge of the matter.

The commissioner, speaking to the Consortium Saturday afternoon, confirmed that he was indeed served a target letter by the FBI related to the contract and funds received from the company. He declined to comment further.

At least one other individual is said to be implicated in the matter, and this individual's phone was also confiscated, the Consortium has learned.

This development comes on the heels of the federal government's actions against V.I. Department of Education Director of Maintenance Davidson Charlemagne and former V.I. Housing Finance Authority Chief Operating Officer Darin George — two high-ranking government officials — who were arrested after a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging them with government program fraud, wire fraud, and money laundering conspiracy. Mr. Charlemange's wife, Sasha, was also arrested and charged in the alleged scheme.

6 Responses to “USVI Top CoP targeted in federal probe; Phones seized”

  • nothing smells worst than a rotten cop (15/06/2024, 18:39) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    Dem dutty down deh too?
    • Finally. (16/06/2024, 02:04) Like (7) Dislike (1) Reply
      Them people who been doing what they want with tax payers money and act like they are above the law and can't be touched are now been hand cuffed, lot more to come both in USVI and BVI.
  • Stealth (15/06/2024, 18:55) Like (8) Dislike (4) Reply
    It seems as if alleged corruption is rampaging in the USVI.Nevertheless, everyone charge is assume innocent until proven guilty and is entitled to due process. Back home in the VI, the top cop has been accused of scores of wrong doings, and is under investigation by TCI cop and is still on the job. Customarily, senior officials accused of wrong doings are relieved of duty pending the resolution of the accusations,ie, Commissioner of Customs Wade Smith. Nonetheless, there seems to be exceptions and special privileges for whites such as the top cop. Further , enquiring minds are curious about the investigation of the top cop.
  • 2024 (15/06/2024, 20:27) Like (12) Dislike (1) Reply
    One thing I love about the USA & USVI the Justice System goes after any one regardless of who they are ask Trump

    In BVI depending of who you are the justice system works differently

    • feds (16/06/2024, 21:04) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
      Thats because they can't buy out the fEDS. Oneal was in a hotel when the FEDS showed up and warranted her phone. Once they on U.S soil they have the power to watch your every move and don't need permission from.police co.missioner
  • Wicked (15/06/2024, 21:34) Like (2) Dislike (2) Reply
    In the bvi Collins is set free


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