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by pltm
(PLTM) - A Gene Hill resident who was one of the four men arrested in connection with Sunday's robbery and murder at Paraquita Bay, has been charged.
Shermar Richardson, 24, has been charged with robbery, according to a press release issued today, April 22. Police said the other three men were released, “pending further investigations.”
There was no mention of police as it relates to charges in connection with the murder of Catherine Pickering who was shot during the very robbery and subsequently died. Commissioner of Police Mark Collins, who also commented on the arrest, said this development is: “As a result of the dedicated work of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).”
Collins continued: “My detectives continue to move meticulously through the inquiry process to ensure no stone is left unturned. I have full confidence in the officers currently in charge. There is no doubt in my mind that they are more than competent, knowledgeable and trustworthy.”
The new COP also appealed to residents to support the police in bringing those responsible for the robbery and murder.
“I know there are concerns with reporting information to police. This is not only locally, but it is an issue internationally. However, I can assure you that whatever information you pass on will be dealt with confidentially. I can also assure you that if any of my officers breach the standard of confidentiality, they will be dealt with according to the code of conduct,” he said.
Meanwhile, residents who have any information that would lead to identifying the perpetrator (s) responsible are encouraged to contact the Major Crime Team at 368-5682 or the Inspector Vernon Larocque directly at 368-9809 or the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
In the meantime, COP Collins said the RVIPF is still actively probing the recent string of murders of Derville Williams, Earl “Bob” Hodge, Everton McMaster Jr. and Matthew Daley and have not identified the persons responsible for the deaths.
“I am ready to receive any information that can further assist us with these investigations. We now have officers from the U.K. and from other Caribbean jurisdictions now assisting local officers in these murder investigations. I give you my assurance that I will get my detectives to follow up on any information which provides legitimate leads to link an identified perpetrator with the needed evidence. This is necessary for us to charge and convict. This is an ideal time to assist us with some of our unsolved cases,” he pleaded.
