A financial misconduct investigation involving unauthorised transactions from a business account has concluded with Romaine Timothy Baird pleading guilty to theft and possession of proceeds of criminal conduct, resulting in a court-imposed fine of $19,675.

According to a statement issued by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) on Thursday, November 12, 2026, the offences involved a series of unauthorised financial transactions carried out between March and December 2023, through which a total of $19,675 was unlawfully obtained.

The matter is one GBM first brought to public attention in 2024, when the investigation was still unfolding.

Following investigations, Baird was arrested in March 2024 and subsequently charged with Theft, Obtaining Property by Deception and Possession of Proceeds of Criminal Conduct.

The RVIPF has now confirmed that Baird pleaded guilty to Theft and Possession of Proceeds of Criminal Conduct. The Court imposed a fine of $19,675, which is to be paid by the end of 2026.

The police welcomed the outcome, describing it as a demonstration of the importance of thorough investigations in tackling financial crimes and ensuring accountability.

Interim Commissioner of Police Richard Ullger said financial crimes can have significant consequences for victims, particularly where trust is exploited for personal gain. He commended investigators for their diligence and reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to pursuing financial crimes and protecting individuals and businesses from criminal exploitation.

The RVIPF is also reminding business owners and members of the public to monitor their financial accounts regularly, safeguard sensitive banking information and report suspicious transactions promptly.

For GBM, this case represents the conclusion of a matter first reported by the media house in 2024, now reaching its outcome through the courts.