Police on St. Thomas confiscated marijuana and a real and fake weapon during patrols Wednesday, according to a release from the V.I.P.D.
At about 4:14 p.m., officers on saturated patrols confiscated several bags of marijuana packaged for sale in the Hospital Ground area. Police said as they drove through the area, a group of five or six men fled on foot and discarded the drugs.
Earlier, at about 3:17 p.m., police confiscated a .357 Smith and Wesson firearm in Estate Contant. Police continue to investigate this matter.
Zone Command officers along with Traffic Investigation Bureau and Bicycle Unit officers assisted with the saturated patrols, in which police hit the streets, making a high-profile sweep through areas of reported high crime. According to police officials, the word gets out quickly that the police are out in force.
Later in the day, around 7:12 p.m., officers confiscated a pellet gun from a 23-year-old man in the Estate Thomas area. Concerned citizens called 911 and reported a male with a gun. When officers arrived on the scene, the suspect reached towards his waist area, and officers ordered the man to stop. He was searched and the gun was found tucked in his waist.
In Friday’s news release, Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis Jr. reminded the public that people possessing fake firearms can face real criminal charges. He said often replica weapons can be mistaken for real weapons and officers will treat all weapons as deadly and threatening. The commissioner added that during this holiday season, parents should remember that toy guns are not suitable gifts for children.
