VG teen arrested for stealing household appliances

BVI News understands that a 15-year-old boy residing in Virgin Gorda was recently arrested and charged in connection with a few household items he was reportedly unable to properly account for.

It is unclear whether the teen had any prior run-ins with the authorities, but sources say social workers were engaged to assist with the matter.

Reports indicate that the teen’s grandparent, with whom he resides, discovered a flat-screen television and a standing fan in his room. When questioned, the teen was unable to adequately explain how he came into possession of the items, prompting his guardian to contact the Virgin Gorda Police.

The teen reportedly did not provide a better explanation to officers and eventually stopped responding after several rounds of questioning. He was later arrested and charged on suspicion of theft.

However, it remains unclear whether the charges were eventually dropped or if the matter will proceed to court.

The incident comes amid growing concern about the number of young people engaging in criminal activity or displaying behaviours that endanger themselves and others.

Education Minister Sharie de Castro recently raised alarm over escalating student misbehaviour in high schools, revealing that more than 85 suspensions were recorded in just the first two months of this year.

In response, the Education Ministry has partnered with the National Security Council, the Ministry of Health, and the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force to address the issue. Two key groups have already been formed: a steering committee on student well-being and a multi-agency task force for student support and intervention.

There have also been renewed calls for the government and civil society to establish youth mentorship programmes to connect young people with positive role models across the territory.