Twenty-one-year-old Jason Smith has been remanded in custody after being convicted of three counts of robbery and one count of possession of proceeds of criminal conduct in connection with a 2023 armed robbery outside UP’s Cineplex.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) confirmed on Friday, August 21, that court proceedings in the matter concluded on July 30, 2026, when Smith was found guilty of all four offences.
The convictions stem from an incident on June 11, 2023, at approximately 11:00 p.m., when four people were in the parking lot of UP’s Cineplex after attending a movie.
According to police, the group was approached by a male dressed in dark clothing and armed with a firearm. The assailant reportedly pointed the weapon at the group and demanded their mobile phones and jewellery.
During the robbery, two of the victims were struck in the head, resulting in lacerations. The victims complied with the demands, handing over their phones and jewellery before the perpetrator fled with the stolen items.
A report was made to the Road Town Police Station shortly afterwards, triggering an investigation by the RVIPF.
Supreme Court Justice Angelica Teelucksingh ordered that Smith remain in custody pending sentencing, which is scheduled for September 18, 2026.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool said the conviction reflects the commitment of officers and investigators who worked on the case.
“This conviction reflects the continued dedication of our officers and investigators in bringing offenders before the courts,” Vanterpool stated. “Robbery is a serious offence that can have a lasting impact on victims and threatens the safety and confidence of our community.”
She also commended the officers involved in the lengthy investigation and prosecution of the matter and acknowledged the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for its role in securing the conviction.
“We will continue our efforts to investigate and prosecute those responsible for violent and predatory crimes and ensure that offenders are held accountable,” the Acting Commissioner added.
The RVIPF said it remains committed to investigating serious offences, protecting the community and supporting the judicial process to ensure offenders are held accountable.