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Friday, March 29, 2024
HomeNewsArchivesEx-Police Union President Advised on Embezzlement Charges

Ex-Police Union President Advised on Embezzlement Charges

V.I. Police Officer Donald Liburd was advised of his rights Friday after a judge found probable cause to uphold charges of embezzlement against the former St. Thomas-St. John Police Benevolent Association head.

In 2011, PBA members filed a report against Liburd and members of his administration, alleging that Liburd had embezzled more than $100,000 from the union’s accounts.

During a hearing held Friday in Magistrate Court on St. Thomas, the 48-year-old Liburd was told that he could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted of the charges. Liburd’s arrest warrant was issued Thursday by V.I. Superior Court Judge Kathleen Mackay.

Most of Friday’s hearing focused on the state of Liburd’s finances and whether he could afford to pay for an attorney. Liburd told Magistrate Judge Alan Smith that he is currently unemployed – on leave without pay from the V.I. Police Department – and has expenses of $4,000 a month.

Liburd is also the sole provider for his wife, who attorneys said has a heart condition and currently lives in Massachusetts.

Considering the information, Smith said a territorial public defender would be appointed to represent Liburd during the case.

While prosecuting attorney Brenda Scales said that the amount of money Liburd is accused of embezzling, along with his financial state, makes him a flight risk, Smith was not convinced. He released Liburd on a $25,000 unsecured bond on the condition that he does not violate any local or federal laws, leave the jurisdiction without notifying the court, report to probation officer weekly, maintain contact with his attorneys and not possess any weapons, among other things.

Liburd’s arraignment is set for 9 a.m. April 4.

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