FREDERIKSTED — An informant tipped off police that a St. Croix man had an unlicensed gun and ammunition in a Five Corners-area nightclub on Thursday night, authorities said.
Rashawn Ryner, 21, of Upper Love was arrested about 10:55 p.m. Thursday and charged with possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession or sale of ammunition, the Virgin Islands Police Department said.
Officers received a report from a concerned citizen that an unknown male, later identified as Ryner, was observed at the Ultra Lounge at Chris’ Hideaway in Estate Little Princesse with a firearm in his waist, according to the VIPD.
“The officers traveled to the establishment and contacted Ryner, who admitted to having the firearm,” VIPD spokesman Toby Derima said. “A check of the Firearm Bureau’s records revealed that Ryner was not licensed to possess a firearm in the territory. “
Ryner was subsequently placed under arrest by the VIPD.
Based on the charges against him, Ryner is likely to face federal firearms charges as well.
Bail for Ryner was set at $50,000. Unable to post bail, he was remanded to the custody of the Virgin Islands Bureau of Corrections (BOC) pending an advice-of-rights hearing.
Sidney Elskoe, St. Croix District Chief of Police, thanked the concerned citizen for contacting police to report the illegal firearm, and encouraged everyone to do the same.
“The VIPD needs your help in fighting crime,” Chief Elskoe said. “If you see something illegal, say something to us.”