VIPD seeks to crack vehicle theft operation with the public’s help

CHARLOTTE AMALIE — The Virgin Islands Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau is
seeking the public’s assistance in gathering information related to a vehicle theft operation
at Discount Car Rental.

The Virgin Island Police Department “swiftly responded” to a report of ongoing vehicle thefts at Discount Car Rental in St. Thomas at 10:40 p.m. Wednesday, according to the VIPD.

“The diligent and rapid response of law enforcement personnel effectively disrupted the operation, preventing further thefts,” VIPD spokeswoman Sakeeda Freeman said. “Despite the suspects managing to leave with one Jeep Wrangler, diligent police action led to its swift recovery at the Nisky
intersection.”

Officers made a “crucial decision” to halt all traffic in the area, aiding in the recovery of the stolen vehicle, according to Freeman.

However, the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, she said.

“Reports indicate that the suspects involved in the attempted theft were armed and considered dangerous, heightening the urgency and complexity of the situation,” Freeman added.

The VIPD is urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Investigation
Bureau at 340-774-2211 extensions 5553, 5554, 5555, or 5556, Emergency services by dialing
911, Crime Stoppers V.I. at 1-800-222-TIPS or Directly to the Chief’s Office at 340-715-5546 or
the Commissioner’s Office at 340-715-5506.

The VIPD assured the public that all tips will be kept confidential and contributors can remain anonymous.

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John F. McCarthy is a veteran journalist in the Caribbean, writing from the "Decision Space" where survival meets the surreal. His reporting steel was tempered by a lineage of legendary editors and broadcasters, including Ed Wynn Brant (The Bomb), Owen Eschenroder (Ann Arbor News), Lynelle Emanuel (BVI Beacon), and Charles Thanas (WSVI-TV). Alongside longtime colleague Kenneth C. "Casey" Clark, McCarthy has navigated the front lines of the territory’s history—from the 1997 volcanic "snow" to every major hurricane since Hugo. Known for leaning out of doorless helicopters to capture the "money shot," McCarthy now edits the V.I. Free Press, providing the essential link between the island's colonial past and its SpaceX future.