BVI News

Premier Fahie could be released on $500K bail, US judge indicates

Premier Andrew Fahie, currently embroiled in a cocaine and money laundering scandal in the United States, could be released on a $500,000 bail bond pending trial, international news media have reported.

Federal court Judge Alicia Otazo-Reyes reportedly gave that indication on Wednesday in what the Washington Post described as “a surprise decision”.

The judge reportedly rejected the prosecutors’ argument that Fahie was a flight risk if he was released from custody pending trial.

She said he could remain in Miami, at a home rented by his two college-aged daughters under the condition he and his family surrendered all their travel documents, and he wears an ankle bracelet monitor.

The prosecution had also argued that Fahie was a danger to the community as throughout the alleged conspiracy, it was evident he engaged in corruption and criminal activity at the highest levels.

“His release would result in a danger to the community by allowing for continued drug trafficking from the BVI to the United States, and the ongoing protection of criminal activity provided by Fahie. Not only would Fahie himself serve as a danger to the community, but his freedom in society would allow for the unfettered criminal activity of Fahie’s associates to continue,” the prosecutors had argued in their submission.

Share the news

Copyright 2024 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.

64 Comments

Disclaimer: BVI News and its affiliated companies are not responsible for the content of comments posted or for anything arising out of use of the comments below or other interaction among the users.

  1. Senegal says:

    Paid in full! Let’s continue bigness.

    Like 11
    Dislike 3
    • Jeffree Cr○○ks says:

      BVI residents, I am asking all of you to donate either $10 or $20 for AF’s bail and to pay back the man in Senegal. Please place funds in a green envelope and drop off at the Premier office. Let’s bring home our big boy

      Like 21
      Dislike 57
      • Tortola Cartel says:

        We know that the only way they get bail is when they sing.

        One of our associates might be paying visit.

        Like 14
        Dislike 1
        • definitely.... says:

          ARRESTED BVI PREMIER SEEKS TO MITIGATE HIS SENTENCE BY COOPERATING AGAINST OTHER CORRUPT EAST CARIBBEAN LEADERS

          Fahie has passed along the message that he has evidence and information that implicates certain other unidentified East Caribbean leaders, and that he wishes to offer such Substantial Assistance, in order to qualify for a reduced sentence, receiving a 5K1.1 Downward Departure below the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. He could also receive an additional sentence reduction, pursuant to Rule 35(b).There have been no court filings yet to confirm these reports; readers should look for a change of plea, to guilty, which generally indicates that such arrangement exists, and has been accepted by the United States attorney in Miami.

          He has not identified which Caribbean leaders he intends to testify against, but an address he gave on March 14, 2019, during an OECS Authority address, in Guadeloupe, may provide a clue;

          “And I am pleased to see here today, the Prime Minister of Dominica, Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit, one of our modern-day champions for regional unity.

          I have known Prime Minister Skerrit for a long time, when we were as younger men, both Ministers of Education in our respective territories.”

          We will continue to monitor the Fahie case, and update our readers on a developments as they occur. Fahie’s hearing on whether he will be held in pretrial detention is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday, May 4th.

          Like 3
          Dislike 7
          • Moo moo says:

            Everyone of “ayo” to be posting comments without any proof in the pudding is not only a moo moo, but a joke , embarassment and clearly not gonna change any outcome in this circumstance . The point is :: dumbasses if you that worried, try and organize a p**s up in a brewery …

            Like 3
            Dislike 4
          • Source? says:

            I can’t find that article. Have a link by chance?

          • FAKE NEWS says:

            Fake propaganda written by a Opposition operative from Dominica. His job is to make the Premier of Dominica look bad so he won’t get re-elected. Be careful with some of these things coming out. They are meant to confuse us and create more confusion. In this case it doesn’t even have anything to do with AF or the BVI, it has to do with politics in Dominica.

      • Allthebest says:

        We longtime done give our donation from the increase tax he raised in sending money via Moneygram and Western Union.

        Like 28
        Dislike 1
        • Miami Herald says:

          At a Wednesday’s hearing in Miami federal court, Fahie’s defense attorney, Theresa Van Vliet, persuaded Magistrate Judge Alicia Otazo-Reyes to grant the BVI premier a $500,000 bond — but he won’t be released immediately because the judge agreed to put her decision on hold while federal prosecutors appeal it. If Fahie, 50, is eventually freed from a federal lock-up, the judge would impose certain bond conditions, including requiring him to stay with his two daughters in southwest Miami-Dade and that he wear a GPS device to monitor his movements in South Florida.

          Read more at: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/article261036782.html#storylink=cpy

      • To Jeffery Crooks says:

        Your last name will run people from doing such a thing. Lol

      • @Jeffree CrOOks says:

        You full of s**t. When you make you bed you lie in it. Bring he home to do what? No more crooks running this country.

        Like 11
        Dislike 1
        • Jeffree Cr○○ks says:

          The fact that you actually took my comment serious shows that you are the one full of $h¡t. LOL read between the lines in my name LMAO

      • Court Filing says:

        UNITED STATES OF AMERICA’S MOTION FOR PRE-TRIAL DETENTION

        “Through the course of this conspiracy, it has become clear that Fahie is engaged in corruption and criminal activity at the highest levels. He has accepted bribes, he has agreed to pay bribes, he has conspired to import thousands of kilograms of a dangerous controlled substance, he has admitted to working with known drug dealers in the BVI, and he has expressed a willingness to inquire about the acquisition of firearms from a Senegalese contact – on behalf of the Sinaloa Cartel.

        Fahie added that his “reliable” criminal associate in the BVI was involved in moving both money and guns (apparently with the knowledge and acquiescence of Fahie). According to Fahie himself, he has been involved in this type of criminal activity for 15-20 years. His release would result in a danger to the community by allowing for continued drug trafficking from the BVI to the United States, and the ongoing protection of criminal activity provided by Fahie. Not only would Fahie himself serve as a danger to the community, but his freedom in society.

        Perhaps more concerning than the danger posed by Fahie is the severe risk that he will flee from prosecution if released on bond. Fahie presents a particularly concerning risk of flight because he has a compelling reason to flee, he has a demonstrated disregard for the rule of law, he has the connections and ability to flee, and he has extremely limited connections to the Southern District of Florida.

        As an initial matter, Fahie is facing a very high guidelines sentence after conviction, along with whatever political consequences he may face. At the very low end, the Defendant is facing a sentence of 235 months, or approximately 20 years. His eventual sentence provides a clear and compelling reason to flee from prosecution if released on bond.

        Not only that, but the Defendant has repeatedly shown a complete and utter disregard for the rule of law, along with a willingness to obstruct justice. Instead of fulfilling his oath of office, and carrying out his duties as required, Fahie did the exact opposite. He accepted bribes, committed crimes, worked with drug dealers, and agreed to pay bribes. He was approached by a purported member of the Sinaloa Cartel with a lucrative criminal opportunity, and instead of turning the cartel in, he joined them.

        Through this investigation, it has become clear that Fahie is corrupt to the core. His actions lead to only one conclusion: that Fahie believes he is above the law. And that’s not just in this case, but – according to Fahie – for the past 15-20 years. This was not his “first rodeo,” no no no, “NOT AT ALL.”

        In addition to the foregoing, the evidence against the Defendant is overwhelming. He and his co-conspirators were captured on multiple audio and/or video recorded meetings or calls. He repeatedly expressed his interested in pursuing this criminal conspiracy, despite being given multiple opportunities to withdraw. He explained that he had a history of criminal activity, and had done this type of thing before. The evidence of the Fahie’s guilt is substantial and undisputable.”

        Like 16
      • Carrot Bay says:

        After this low life, sweet talking sleeze done rob so much from us. Hmmm

      • Theo says:

        Somebody get Yellow to take up collection.

        “Can I have a dollah?”

      • rastarite says:

        Ha ha ha… Good joke!!

    • OMG says:

      Free to continue to continue his influence over persons in government and political lackies.

      We need elections now!

      Like 11
      • Really? says:

        An election? What political candidates are there in the BVIs that are untainted?

        • Ask the Bishop says:

          The Bishop and his friends have a list, as a matter of fact there may be two different factions writing up lists. They are hand picking their own people. Beware of those offering gifts.

    • It’s All Tying Together says:

      That $500,000 he was expecting from that drug deal he got to use now for bail.

      From Court Filing:

      “The Defendants ultimately agreed that the first shipment of cocaine, 3,000 kilograms, would come through the BVI during early July 2022. Then, they would coordinate two shipments of 3,000 kilograms of cocaine every month, for a period of four months. As an initial payment for their role in the conspiracy, Fahie and Maynard planned to accept $700,000 in cash during a trip to Miami on April 28, 2022. That payment included $500,000 for Fahie, and $200,000 for Maynard. They would later be paid approximately 10% of the drug sales in Miami for each shipment, or roughly $7.8 million per load. In addition, they would receive 2% in order to pay for expenses on the island, including additional bribes. The Defendants agreed to this payment structure.

      As noted in the Complaint, during the April 7, 2022 meeting, Fahie asked the CS if he could help Fahie pay $83,000 in cash to someone in Senegal. Fahie explained that this was someone he trusted, who he had known for 20 years, and who was “like a brother” to Fahie. The CS agreed to join Fahie and that man in St. Martin around May 3, 2022, so that the CS could provide that cash on Fahie’s behalf. During their discussion about the man from Senegal, the CS asked if he could get them guns. Fahie responded, “I would have to ask him.”

      Letter from Court Filing to Miami Airport written by BVI International Affairs Secretariat Office:

      “I hereby request your kind assistance in providing protocol intervention for the Premier of the British Virgin Islands, the Honourable Andrew A. Fahie and Mrs. Fahie who will be traveling to Miami on official business on Sunday 24th April, 2022.
      He is scheduled to depart Miami to Sint Maarten, on official business on Tuesday 3rd May, 2022. The Premier will be accompanied by his wife Mrs. Sheila Fahie.”

      • WTF says:

        They need to find the persons preparing the official correspondence for his travels. She knows something!

        • @WTF says:

          His travels to where.Didn’t you read the news properly. He is not allowed to leave Miaimi. He has to surrender his travel documents.

  2. XXXXXXL Ankle Monitor says:

    I’m sure his minions are happy for this news. They can tap dance from east to west

    Like 8
    Dislike 3
    • Judge Juty says:

      Hold the press….. Fahie’s Attorney filed the unauthorized letter from Fahie’s Office dated May 3, 2022 as proof that he should be released. Submitting false evidence is a crime in itself. This needs to be investigated and reported to the court. Will Fahie walk after submitting false evidence?

      Like 10
      Dislike 3
  3. District 1 says:

    Our king is back

    Like 5
    Dislike 43
  4. who? says:

    Is the person paying his bail linked to his corruption?

    Like 12
    Dislike 2
    • Bondsman are Gray says:

      Most people do not pay the full bond. Bonds are like deposits, you pay them to the court to with the idea that you get the money back when you show up for trial. So it’s possible for him to to pay the full $500,000, his corruption has probably given him the money to do so, but on average no one pays the full bond. What people do is find a bondsman. This is someone who pays the full bond for you and you pay them a small percentage to do so. They will eventually get the money they paid for your bond back when you show up for trial, and then they pocket what you E paid them as profit. It’s quite a nasty private industry that has grown on the back of the American system.

      • But ... says:

        … the defendant still has to put up some kind of asset to that value to the bondsman as collateral – no?

        • Bondsman are Gray says:

          Yes, but usually far less value than the actual bond. Their whole purpose is to make money off of those that cannot afford or don’t want to pay the bond. All in all the reality is that our drug running friend is going to pay far less than 500K if he wants to use one.

          • @Bondsman are Gray says:

            What happens if the accused does not show up for trial after being bailed? Does the bondsman get his money back from the court?

          • Bondsman are Gray says:

            Nope, Bondsman don’t get their money back if you no show, it’s a risk of the business. It’s why they take some form of collateral from you. Some are a bit more criminal and will genuinely chase you down to make back their money.

    • Yep says:

      Can you be certain that ill gotten monies will be used for this and other things.. you can bet that his daughters accommodation and other things were paid by us taxpayers and drug money ?

  5. Bug him says:

    I hope they’ve bugged his house. Bet there will be a few dodgy phone calls made.

    Like 18
    Dislike 3
  6. Hmmm says:

    Must be a big ankle bracelet.

    Like 26
    Dislike 3
    • M Dredis says:

      The man was looking to make the big deal but was busted. Now the whole island is back to UK rule. This is because we have corrupt leaders who can’t govern for the benefit of the people. We go suffer once avian cause we can’t self govern. They are in it for themselves, not us small people.
      You know it better we get rule from a London, instead of them corrupt full.
      Wish L Stout and Ralph O’Neil was able to see this.

      Like 9
      Dislike 2
      • Melvin T says:

        Back to being ruled from UK. Stand by for arrests and corruption charges. There are going to be people charged within the government for forgery etc. Read the report. When politicians and government officials steal from the crown then we have a problem.

  7. wellsah says:

    i hope he gets things with that obeah man straighten out

    Like 10
    Dislike 1
  8. rumble says:

    the majority home is on your side premier theyre lying on you. we marched for you

    Like 6
    Dislike 57
    • @rumble says:

      The only ones on his side are those that benefit from his dodgy dealings. Guess we know you’re one of dem crooks.

      Like 24
  9. Vip supporter says:

    Civil war incoming

    Like 4
    Dislike 13
  10. Vip supporter says:

    We want fahie

    Like 5
    Dislike 44
  11. Could be released... says:

    BVI news you late. Get with it. 284 in front of y’all

    Like 2
    Dislike 7
  12. Mathematician says:

    Ok class for those of you who don’t know $500,000 is 10% of $5,000,000 just in case any of you were wondering. (No calculators needed)

    Like 13
  13. Geography says:

    How long does it take to get from Miami to Bimini in Bahamas on a powerboat? Asking for a friend.

    Like 13
  14. ?‍♂️ says:

    This story has been edited to correct that the judge said Fahie could be released on $500,000 bond, not that he has been released on bond.

  15. Advice says:

    Fire burning hot for you Mr. Fahie, let the politics go and think about your family well-being, they need you in this time of pain. Get your facts straight use this bail opportunity to keep your loved ones together and sought yourself out! Leave the so called obeah man alone and find God once again. Just saying!

    Like 5
    Dislike 3
  16. Set up... says:

    They know his delusions of grandeur will just get more ppl caught up. If I were his daughters I wouldn’t even feel safe staying with him knowing what he’s into. We don’t know who may want to get rid of him before he says too much.

    Like 32
    Dislike 2
  17. Popeye says:

    Does anyone know where I can buy a large hot air balloon with a pilot that can keep a secret? An associate asked me to check around. Paid for in cash, $100s and no wrappers.

    Like 7
    Dislike 2
  18. son of the soil says:

    We need to revoke all those belongerships that were given out by him.

    Like 13
    Dislike 7
  19. Just Asking says:

    What happen to Rose and Blacka? Any updates on these two co- conspirators?

    Like 10
  20. Family man says:

    Inmate Fahie is a target for assassination so why would he want to expose his daughters to that risk? He would be safer in jail, especially in Miami where nearly everyone carries a concealed gun. If the assassin is successful then the US government keeps the $500K, no refunds!

    Like 12
    • my thought says:

      Exactly. He has no regard for family, faith, country. Gr**dy man he is and such a sinner. He has put all of us at risk even his own daughters.

  21. Ausar says:

    He HAS been released. Staying with college -aged daughters in Florida. Must wear ankle monitor..

    Dislike 10
  22. My Voice says:

    I Notice that since Honourable Andrew A. Fahie became a United States Citizen – Everybody is distancing themselves from him. He is now a Citizen of the United States and has become a resident of Miami Florida. I wish him all the best in his New Home.

  23. Multiple passports says:

    Will the US remember that they need to remove at least 2 passports from each of them. BVI, UK and possibly US?

  24. Madea says:

    So if the UK don’t pay him well how he is going to get $500k for the bail? Who has $500k in the bank? And are they clean funds – where did that money come from? Why hasn’t his bank account been frozen as it may have proceeds of crime. Where is the FIA?

Leave a Comment