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Woman Arrested After Property Damage and Violation of Restraining Order

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Woman Arrested After Property Damage and Violation of Restraining Order

A 43-year-old woman was arrested on St. Croix after she allegedly damaged property and violated a restraining order at the home of a former acquaintance, according to the V.I. Police Department.

On June 21, a man called 911 to report that Tiffany Mendez was on his property, causing a disturbance and had broken a glass louver on his house window. The man also informed authorities that a Permanent Court Restraining Order was in place against Mendez, according to the police report.

By the time officers arrived, Mendez had already left the scene. After repeated unsuccessful attempts to contact her by phone, the department issued an all-points bulletin and a wanted poster, the police report stated.

Mendez turned herself into police Monday and was arrested for destruction of property (domestic violence), disturbance of the peace, and contempt of court related to a domestic violence matter, the report stated.

Under the Virgin Islands Domestic Violence Law, no bail was set. Mendez will remain in custody until her initial court appearance for an advisement of rights hearing

Man Charged in Domestic Assault That Left Woman With Jaw Injuries

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Man Charged in Domestic Assault That Left Woman With Jaw Injuries

A 34-year-old man was arrested in June on St. Croix in connection with a domestic assault that left a woman with serious injuries to her jaw, according to the V.I. Police Department.

Police said the victim reported the assault March 31 around 3:04 a.m. at the Wilbur H. Francis Command Police Station. She told officers that earlier that morning — around 1:00 a.m. — she went to the residence of Ismael Navarro, knocked on his door several times, and was eventually met with a verbal confrontation. She said Navarro came outside and physically assaulted her, causing significant injury.

The VIPD’s Criminal Investigation Bureau opened an investigation, and a warrant for Navarro’s arrest was issued June 6. He was taken into custody June 24 and charged with third-degree assault under the Domestic Violence statute, the police report stated.

A Victorious Weekend for CAPA, Massey, and Rock City United in USVISF Premier League

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A Victorious Weekend for CAPA, Massey, and Rock City United in USVISF Premier League

This weekend in the U.S. Virgin Islands Soccer Federation, Premier Leagues brought heavy pressure, high-scoring matches, and a clear message: the level of play across the territory is rising — and fast.

With decisive wins from breakout contenders and familiar firepower from returning favorites, the league’s midseason stretch is shaping up to be a battle of endurance, depth, and discipline.

Champion Athletic Performance Academy shuts out Helenites FC 5–0 at Bethlehem Soccer Complex on St. Croix. (Photo courtesy Lance P. Chardon II, USVISF)

CAPA Crushes Helenites 5–0 in Bethlehem Blowout

Champion Athletic Performance Academy steamrolled past previously dominant Helenites FC with a ruthless 5–0 shutout at Bethlehem Soccer Complex on St. Croix Sunday, July 6.

The tone was set early when Rakeem Joseph picked up a yellow card but quickly redeemed himself by opening the scoring in the 18th minute. Davion Bell and Alexi Bedford joined the attack, each netting a goal to give CAPA a commanding 3–0 lead by halftime.

Helenites — known for their grit — couldn’t recover. Despite three more yellow cards in the second half, their defensive line struggled to contain CAPA’s aggressive front.

In the 79th and 81st minutes, Joseph and Trevon Thorpe sealed the deal with back-to-back goals. With five goals scored and a clean sheet secured by CAPA’s goalkeeper, this was not just a win – it was a statement.

Massey Soccer Academy commanded the field at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School with a 5-3 victory over LRVI FC. (Photo courtesy Lance P. Chardon II, USVISF)

Massey Outguns LRVI 5–3 in High-Octane Thriller

Over on St. Thomas, Massey Soccer Academy commanded the field at Ivanna Eudora Kean High School with a four-goal burst that overwhelmed LRVI FC in the first half.

Amir Ottley struck first in the 15th minute, followed closely by Getrau Louis. Christopher Septus added two of his own in the 25th and 36th minutes, sending LRVI’s goalkeeper, Connor Querrard, into survival mode.

LRVI’s Jean Thierry Baptiste answered just before the halftime whistle, but Massey’s Mahari Cortijo restored their dominant lead in the 54th minute, making it 5–1.

Late in the match, Auston Martinson and Mike Point Du Jour found the back of the net to make it 5–3, but time ran out on the comeback, ending the game in a Massey victory.

Rock City United does it again in 6–1 win over Castaways. (Photo courtesy Lance P. Chardon II, USVISF)

Rock City United Runs It Back in Women’s 6–1 Win Over Castaways

Ivanna Eudora Kean High School, St. Thomas — Sunday, July 6

In the women’s division, Rock City United once again proved too strong for Castaways FC, following up last weekend’s 6–0 win with another dominant 6-goal performance.

The St. Thomas-based side controlled the 7v7 matchup from start to finish, capitalizing on their speed, spacing, and cohesion. Castaways managed to break through, scoring against goalkeeper Michael Holt to avoid another shutout — but Rock City’s control was never in question.

Now, eyes are on the upcoming Women’s League finals, where the St. Thomas clubs will get their long-awaited shot at the top two teams from St. Croix. With momentum on their side, Rock City United is looking like a serious contender.

What’s next? Follow USVISF on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date on all the action!

Andrene Louvina Mills Dies at 86

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Andrene Louvina Mills Dies at 86

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Andrene Louvina Mills.

Andrene Louvina Mills

January 7, 1939 – June 14, 2025

SURVIVORS of Andrene Louvina Mills

Children: Leroy Willett, Charles Willette (Deceased), Steadroy Willet (Deceased), Fayette Granger Elcock

Brothers: Derek Willette, Viscount Willett, Albert Willett, Hilroy Willett, John Willett, Clarence Willett, David Willett

Sisters: Doniza Willett-Alexander, Marilyn Willett, Clair Willett-Tonge, Ophelia Willett, Veronica Willett

Sister-in-Law: Paula Willette

Son-in-Law: Oliver Elcock

Grandsons: Alex Duncan, Ari Elcock, Gabriel Elcock, Leroy Willett, Jr., Mark Willett, Mervin Prentice, Yohancé Willett

Granddaughters: Andrene Willette, Chantal Todd, Hadassah Willett, Icilma Knight, Karisia Willett, Kibiane Willett, Sharifa Willette, Sharon Keenan,

Nephew and Nieces: Thema Downer, Osa Willette, Kemba Stephens

Nephews-in-Law: Keno Downer, Lyndon Stephens, Other Relatives

Myrtle Davis and Family 

Randolph Davis and Family

Zedna and Calvin Halliday and Family

Carmella and Kenneth Mills and Family

Thelma Smalls and Family

Sylvia Veronica Mills Browne and Family

Estrella Callwood and Family

The Mills, Browne, Petty, Moore, Wattley, Willette and Leader families 

And many other nieces, nephews, great grandchildren, great nieces and great nephews.

Special Friends: Ms. Tavelyn Frazer, Ms. Myrtle Davis and Family, Mr. Dalton Carty, Ms. Mary Jersey Nelson, Mrs. Margaret Corbett and Family, Ms. Denise Mills and Family, Mr. and Mrs. John France, Ms. Wanda Alice Matthew and Family, Her Virgin Islands Port Authority coworkers, St Andrews Episcopal Church Family, And many other relatives and friends, too numerous to mention.

The first viewing will be held on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 4 to 6 p.m. at Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory Services. second viewing will be at Tuesday, July 29, 2025 9 a.m. follow by a 10 a.m. service at the St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Interment will be in Eastern Cemetery, Smith Bay.

20 Educators Earn Master’s Degrees in ESOL

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20 Educators Earn Master’s Degrees in ESOL

The Virgin Islands Department of Education, through its State Office of Bilingual Education, is proud to announce an incredible milestone for our Territory’s schools: twenty dedicated teachers from the St. Croix and St. Thomas-St. John school districts have successfully completed their Master’s in Education with a specialization in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL).

This remarkable achievement was made possible through the unwavering leadership and commitment of Jose Perez, ESOL Coordinator for the St. Croix District, and Dr. Migdalia Cruz Arthurton, ESOL Coordinator for the St. Thomas-St. John District. Their tireless efforts and a successful grant application created this life-changing opportunity for our educators, strengthening VIDE’s capacity to serve English language learners across the Territory.

This accomplishment not only elevates the professional expertise of our teachers but also ensures that our English language learners receive the highest quality education and support to help them thrive. It is a testament to our educators’ dedication and VIDE’s ongoing commitment to fostering excellence and equity for every student in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Academic and professional training was provided at the Ana G. Méndez University (UAGM) Gurabo Campus. Please join us in celebrating the following educators for this outstanding accomplishment: Glenda Richards, Renita Rhymer, Yahaira Sanchez Acevedo, Ingrid Rogers Nicolas, Meredith V. Carty, Lucia V. Smith, Alysha Velez, Zuri E. Baker, Kenneth Christopher, Michelle Belardo, Sandra Douglas, Hilma Cuffy, Mary Felix, Thamrah M. Gomes, Maureen Charmaine Fleming, Ana Hernandez Evans, Judith Henley JnCharles, Magdalyn Jules, Winfred A. Lewis, and Jonathan Paul.

The VIDE extends heartfelt congratulations to these newly minted Master’s graduates and looks forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in our schools and communities.

Part of Queen Mary Highway/Centerline Road Closed Wednesday

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The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) advises the motoring public of an upcoming lane closure along Queen Mary Highway (Centerline Road) as part of the next phase of the Queen Mary Highway Electrical Undergrounding Project.

Beginning Wednesday, July 9, 2025, the eastbound lane of Queen Mary Highway will be closed between East Airport Road and the UVI/St. Croix Educational Complex traffic light, while the westbound lane remains open to allow continued westward traffic flow.

Additionally, the highway will remain closed in both directions between East Airport Road and Route 707 through Friday, July 11, 2025, reopening after that date.

These closures are necessary to support the continued installation of underground electrical infrastructure—critical work that will improve the reliability and storm resilience of St. Croix’s electrical grid.

Motorists are urged to use caution, follow posted detour signs, and comply with flaggers to maintain a safe environment for workers and fellow travelers.

WAPA appreciates the community’s continued patience and cooperation as this essential infrastructure project progresses.

Elections System Clarifies Voter Purge

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Elections System Clarifies Voter Purge

The Elections System of the Virgin Islands (ESVI) is clarifying the purpose and content of the inactive voter registration listing.

Bill No. 34-0230 was passed by the 34th Legislature of the Virgin Islands on July 20, 2022, and signed into law by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. The Act amends Title 18, Chapter 5, Section 110 of the Virgin Islands Code, which governs the registration of electors. It requires the Supervisor of Elections to compile a list distinguishing active from inactive voters within ninety (90) days following each General Election, beginning with the 2022 election. The Elections System of the Virgin Islands supported the measure as a means to maintain accurate voter registration rolls and improve the reliability of election statistics.

If a voter has not voted in the last two general elections, a notice is mailed to their address on file, informing them their registration will be marked inactive. If no response is received after 30 days, the voter is placed on the inactive list. Once finalized, the list—including voter ID, name, and residential address—is compiled and posted in three locations, as required by VIC Title 18, Section 110(e)(2). The residential address is included in the listing to help accurately identify each voter, especially those with similar names. This ensures that the correct individual is informed. 

Pursuant to the V,I. Open Records Act and VIC Title 18 Section 53, a voter registration record is a public document and can be examined by any qualified elector in public places such as V.I. post offices. The following voter information will never be shared: date of birth, phone number, email, or the last four digits of a Social Security number.

Supervisor of Elections Caroline F. Fawkes extended sincere apologies to families of deceased voters who appeared on the recently published inactive voter registration list. “Unfortunately, death records are not always immediately available to the Elections System as we work to comply with the law,” she explained.

According to Supervisor Fawkes, ESVI cannot remove any voter unless the Election System receives notification from the Virgin Islands Department of Health, an authorized representative of a voter, or the voter requests their registration to be cancelled. Authorized individuals may remove a deceased person from the voter registry by completing the Voter Registration Cancellation Form, available at https://vivote.gov, or by visiting any ESVI office. Voters who have relocated are also encouraged to submit a Voter Registration Cancellation form.

“The Elections System of the Virgin Islands will work with our partners to address concerns about the required posting of inactive voter registration listings. 

We value the public’s feedback and will use it to improve the process and reduce costs moving forward. Thank you for allowing my team and me to serve you,” concluded Supervisor Fawkes. For any ESVI questions or concerns, please contact the St. Croix offices at 340-773-1021 or St. Thomas/St. John Elections Offices at 340-774-3107 

Your Vote is Your Voice and Your Voice is Your Vote!

Governor Bryan Calls Special Legislative Session to Advance Reforms in Fiscal Responsibility, Government Fairness, and Public Trust

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Governor Bryan Calls Special Legislative Session to Advance Reforms in Fiscal Responsibility, Government Fairness, and Public Trust

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has officially called the 36th Legislature of the Virgin Islands into Special Session for Thursday, July 31. The session will consider three critical legislative proposals aimed at restoring fiscal discipline, promoting fairness, and strengthening public confidence in government.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. (Submitted photo)

Governor Bryan first announced his intent to convene a Special Session during his June 30 press briefing. Since then, Government House has received a significant number of messages from residents across the territory voicing strong support for the proposed reforms and calling for immediate action.

“This is not a symbolic gesture. It is a serious call to action,” Governor Bryan said during his July 7 press briefing. “The people of the Virgin Islands expect leadership rooted in fairness, responsibility, and a commitment to sound policy. These proposals reflect that standard.”

Governor Bryan has submitted three legislative proposals for consideration during the Special Session:

1. Request for Proposals for a Self-Funded Health and Dental Insurance Plan

Notwithstanding any other law, this measure directs the Government Employees Service Commission to issue a request for proposals to explore a self-funded health and dental insurance model for government employees and retirees. The current fully funded plan has become financially unsustainable, with rising premiums placing an increasing burden on workers and retirees.

“If we continue on the current path, we will see higher premiums, greater out-of-pocket costs, and possibly a reduction in benefits,” Governor Bryan said. “Taking this step allows us to evaluate a model that could reduce costs, improve transparency, and direct savings back into the healthcare system. We must act now to protect the financial well-being of our workforce and the long-term stability of our healthcare institutions.”

2. The Double Dipping Repeal Act of 2025

This bill eliminates the ability of incumbent legislators to receive both a government pension and a legislative salary at the same time. The Governor said this practice is fiscally irresponsible and undermines public trust in elected officials.

“There is one Government of the Virgin Islands. The position of senator is not difficult to fill,” Bryan said. “This is about restoring parity and ensuring that those who serve do so under the same standards we expect of every other public servant. It is time to put an end to this.”

3. Repeal of the Leave of Absence Requirement for Government Employees Seeking Office

The final proposal repeals the requirement that government employees take a leave of absence simply for declaring their candidacy for public office. Governor Bryan described the law as a barrier to public participation and outdated in both purpose and practice.

“As a lifelong Democrat, I believe in access and participation,” he said. “This law discourages qualified people from entering public service. I want to thank Senator Marise James for introducing this measure in the past. Since raising this issue publicly, we have heard from many Virgin Islanders who agree that it is time to change the law. There is no reason to keep this on the books.”

Governor Bryan said these reforms reflect his administration’s broader commitment to fiscal responsibility and public accountability. He emphasized that each proposal addresses longstanding issues that require thoughtful and decisive action.

“These are not political proposals. They are practical steps that reflect the values of fairness, transparency, and responsibility,” Bryan said. “The people of this territory want leadership that puts good governance ahead of politics. That is what this Special Session is about.”

The Governor has directed members of his administration to be available to provide testimony and answer questions on July 31. He encouraged members of the Legislature to approach the session with urgency and focus.

“We owe it to the people we serve to lead with courage, with clarity, and with discipline,” Bryan said. “This is our opportunity to move the Virgin Islands forward. I stand ready to work with the Legislature to make that happen.”

Back To School Jamboree Saturday

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Back To School Jamboree Saturday

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is excited to announce its Back-to-School Jamboree and Food Truck Festival, scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 9, at the St. Croix Educational Complex from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

In full alignment with VIDE’s 2025–2026 school year theme, “Igniting Innovation and Elevating Excellence,” the event aims to foster community collaboration, parent partnerships, and school pride while providing families with essential resources to start the school year strong. The Jamboree will feature engaging activities for PreK–12th grade students and parents, music, games, community educational stations, and a variety of local food trucks.

VIDE invites community partners, agencies, and organizations to participate by hosting educational stations where families can engage with the services and opportunities available in the community in an interactive way.

The goal is to create a space where students, parents, and community partners can connect, receive hands-on support, and celebrate the start of a new school year. Community partners interested in participating are asked to scan the QR code or complete the registration form by July 14, 2025.

For additional information or to confirm participation, please contact Dynel Lang, Director of Parental and Community Engagement & Positive School Climate at dynel.lang@vide.vi or 340-773-1095 ext. 7095 or Mrs. Jeselle Cruse-Peter, Elementary Programs Coordinator, at jeselle.cruse@vide.vi or (340) 514-5390.

The Virgin Islands Department of Education looks forward to welcoming families and partners as it kicks off the 2025–2026 school year with a celebration that embodies the spirit of innovation, excellence, and community.

CFVI Chooses Kari Currence For 2025 Lawyers’ Scholarship

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CFVI Chooses Kari Currence For 2025 Lawyers’ Scholarship

The Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands is pleased to announce Kari Currence as the recipient of the 2025 Lawyers’ Scholarship, which was established in 2022 by current St. Croix attorney Lisa Harris Moorhead and former St. Croix attorney Susan Bastress to support the next generation of Virgin Islands legal professionals.

Kari Currence is the 2025 Lawyers’ Scholarship recipient. (Submitted photo)

Currence, a graduate of Good Hope Country Day School, is currently pursuing her law degree at the Moritz College of Law at Ohio State University, where she is expected to graduate in 2026. Her academic journey includes undergraduate studies at both Columbia University and the University of the Virgin Islands.

“I hope to return to the Virgin Islands to practice law,” Currence said. “My views on what exactly I might do change from time to time as my experiences broaden. However, I would like to obtain a clerkship with a local or district court judge and then enter either private practice or government service.”

“We are delighted to award a scholarship to Kari as she pursues her J.D. degree and prepares to bring her talents back to the Virgin Islands,” said Moorhead.

Noted Bastress, “Investing in future leaders like Kari is essential to the continued growth and vitality of our community.”

The Lawyers’ Scholarship provides recipients with $5,000 per year, renewable annually for the duration of their studies, as long as they remain in good academic standing. This ongoing support reflects the scholarship’s commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals.

Past Scholarship Recipients

CFVI is proud to have supported a growing cohort of aspiring legal professionals from the Virgin Islands through the Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund:

2024 Recipients

  • Layalie Washshah, a St. Croix native and Good Hope Country Day graduate, is pursuing her J.D. at Loyola University Chicago School of Law, graduating in 2027.
  • Amisha Mirchandani, born on St. Thomas and a graduate of Antilles School, is studying at Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law, graduating in 2027.

2023 Recipients

  • Diamond Ash, a Charlotte Amalie High School alumna is pursuing her J.D. at William & Mary Law School, graduating in 2026.
  • Denisha Emmanuel, a graduate of St. Croix Educational Complex, is pursuing her J.D. at American University Washington College of Law, graduating in 2027.

“CFVI congratulates Kari and all previous recipients on their achievements,” said CFVI President Dee Baecher-Brown, “and we look forward to their future contributions to the Virgin Islands legal community.”

Donations to The Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund can be made online at https://cfvi.co/LawyerScholarshipFund. Checks can be made out to “CFVI” with the memo “Lawyers’ Scholarship Fund” and mailed to CFVI at PO Box 380, St. Thomas, VI 00804. Credit card donations can be taken over the phone by calling CFVI at 340-774-6031.

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