Trevor Stephen, a convicted drug trafficker involved in a high-speed chase across St. Thomas, was sentenced to 37 months in prison. He was found guilty of drug possession in June 2023. Federal authorities presented video evidence and witness statements linking Stephen to the crime. His motion for a new trial was denied by Chief District Judge Robert Molloy. Former codefendant Russell Robinson faced a mistrial and was retried, resulting in a guilty verdict with sentencing set for July 3.

Trevor Stephen, convicted of drug trafficking after a chase across St. Thomas, was sentenced to 37 months in prison. The trial included video surveillance and witness statements. Stephen was convicted of drug possession but not conspiracy, while codefendant Russell Robinson faced a mistrial and a subsequent guilty verdict. Chief District Judge Robert Molloy denied Stephen's motion for a new trial.

Trevor Stephen, convicted of drug trafficking, was sentenced to 37 months in prison following a chase across St. Thomas involving a cocaine-laden truck. The trial, held in June 2023, included video surveillance and witness statements. Stephen was convicted of drug possession but not conspiracy, while his codefendant, Russell Robinson, faced a mistrial and a subsequent guilty verdict. Chief District Judge Robert Molloy denied Stephen's motion for a new trial, and Robinson's sentencing is set for July 3.

In a heartfelt gathering at Emancipation Garden, the community of St. Thomas mourned the tragic loss of 9-year-old Ja’Qeada Isaac, who drowned in Charlotte Amalie Harbor. Her mother, Anyah Smith, has been charged with first-degree murder. Friends, family, and community members, including educators and youth groups, paid tribute through prayers, music, and dance. Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington and Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach expressed their sorrow and honored Isaac's memory, emphasizing the impact of her short life on the community.

A memorial service was held at Emancipation Garden for Ja’Qeada Isaac, a 9-year-old girl who drowned in Charlotte Amalie Harbor after being tied to a cinder block. Her mother, Anyah Smith, has been charged with first-degree murder. The service included performances by the Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra and the Charlotte Amalie Concert Choir, and a tribute dance by Isaac's troupe, Elite Dynasty Dancers. Speakers included Tuitt School Principal Thelea Bedminster, Junior Firefighters leader Patricia Benjamin, Pastor Michael McDonald, Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington, and Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach, who all honored Isaac's memory and impact on the community.

Improving resources and boosting productivity at Bordeaux Farms will be the focus of an upcoming meeting between farmers and Agriculture Department officials. Commissioner Louis Petersen announced plans to discuss a new 100,000-gallon cistern project and the creation of a fruit orchard with We Grow Food, Inc. The initiative aims to enhance water storage and meet market demand for tropical fruits. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. is credited for supporting these projects, and former Agriculture official Elridge Thomas emphasizes the urgency of revitalizing local agriculture.

The Agriculture Department, led by Commissioner Louis Petersen, plans to meet with farmers at Bordeaux Farms to discuss improving resources and boosting productivity. Key topics include a new 100,000-gallon cistern to enhance water storage and the creation of a fruit orchard. The initiative is supported by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and aims to address long-standing needs for increased local produce. Elridge Thomas, a former Agriculture official, emphasizes the urgency of revitalizing agriculture in the region.

Agriculture Commissioner Louis Petersen announced a meeting with We Grow Food, Inc. to discuss an infrastructure project at Bordeaux Farms, including a new 100,000-gallon cistern to complement the existing 60,000-gallon cistern, and the creation of a fruit orchard. The meeting, which follows discussions at the 25th Annual Bordeaux Farmers Rastafari Agriculture and Culture Vegan Food Fair, aims to address the need for more water to increase local produce in the market. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has committed resources to support these projects, and former Agriculture official Elridge Thomas emphasized the urgency of revitalizing agriculture.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day event on St. John highlighted the Virgin Islands' early role in recognizing the holiday, years before it became a national observance. Keynote speaker Glen “Kwabena” Davis emphasized the importance of long-term advocacy over a single day of service, urging attendees to honor King's legacy by working for justice and equality. The event, organized by local pastors and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, featured speeches, music, and calls to community service, despite inclement weather.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day event on St. John highlighted the Virgin Islands' early role in recognizing the holiday, years before it became a national observance. Keynote speaker Glen “Kwabena” Davis emphasized the importance of long-term advocacy over a single day of service, urging the community to continue King's legacy of justice and equality. The event, organized by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and local pastors, included speeches, music, and calls to action for community service.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Day event on St. John highlighted the Virgin Islands' early role in recognizing MLK's legacy as a holiday. Keynote speaker Glen “Kwabena” Davis emphasized the importance of long-term advocacy over a single day of service, urging the community to continue King's work for justice and equality. The event, organized by local pastors and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, included speeches, music, and reflections on King's life and contributions. Despite the weather, the community gathered to honor MLK and promote acts of service.

An argument over a refrigerator led to the arrest of Carmen Alegria-Herrera on St. Thomas for assault, disturbance of the peace, and use of a weapon in a violent crime. The incident, which occurred near Kronprindsens Gade, resulted in the victim suffering multiple stab wounds and being treated at Roy L. Schneider Hospital. Security footage and witness statements indicated that Alegria-Herrera retrieved a weapon after an initial fight. The assault charge was later upgraded to assault with intent to commit murder, with a court appearance scheduled for Jan. 26.

A woman on St. Thomas was arrested for multiple stab wounds inflicted during an altercation over a refrigerator. The incident occurred near Kronprindsens Gade, and the victim was treated at Roy L. Schneider Hospital. Carmen Alegria-Herrera was charged with assault, disturbance of the peace, and weapon use in a violent crime. The assault charge was later upgraded to intent to commit murder, and Alegria-Herrera is to be arraigned on Jan. 26.

The St. Thomas Yacht Club hosted an open house to offer free sailing lessons as part of their annual membership drive, attracting about 90 participants. Commodore Chris Rosenberg and other club members provided hands-on sailing instruction in Cowpet Bay. The event aimed to introduce community members to the club's programs, with opportunities for both novice and experienced sailors. The next open house is scheduled for May 12.

Three Kings Day in Love City, St. John, was celebrated with a musical procession featuring the band Quelbe Resurrection. The event started at the National Park ballfield and included two laps around the town, with the band playing on a flatbed truck. Residents and visitors joined the celebration, which moved through the town, past the Ubaldina Simmons Post Office, and into Franklin Powell Park. The festivities began around 6 p.m. and continued into the evening, with some participants continuing up the hill past the traffic circle and down to Cruz Bay Creek.

Three Kings Day in Love City, St. John, featured a lively celebration with the Quelbe Resurrection band leading a parade through town. The event, starting at the National Park ballfield, saw residents and visitors join in as the band moved past key landmarks like Ubaldina Simmons Post Office and Franklin Powell Park. The festivities, which began around 6 p.m., brought a vibrant atmosphere to the town, highlighting the community's spirit and cultural traditions.

Three Kings Day celebrations in Love City, St. John, featured a lively parade with the Quelbe Resurrection band. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of residents and visitors who followed the band through the town, starting at the National Park ballfield and looping through key locations like Ubaldina Simmons Post Office and Franklin Powell Park. The festivities, which began around 6 p.m., highlighted the community's vibrant spirit and cultural traditions.

Charles Comerford was arrested and accused of assault and reckless endangerment after allegedly running over a man's foot twice with a car during a property rights dispute in Havensight, St. Thomas. The incident occurred on January 3 as the victim was clearing overgrowth from a walkway used by local beachgoers. Comerford, who claimed the property was his, was released on $25,000 cash bail after a Superior Court hearing where charges were upheld.

A property dispute in St. Thomas led to the arrest of Charles Comerford, accused of assault and reckless endangerment after allegedly running over a man's foot twice with a car. The incident occurred while the victim was clearing a pathway to a beach. Comerford, who claimed the property was his, was released on $25,000 bail after a court hearing where charges were upheld.

Matthew Campbell, a federal public defender from St. Thomas, is traveling to Washington, D.C. to represent a client, John Richter, accused in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. Campbell, who is also handling local high-profile cases, including the defense of Alfredo Bruce Smith and Richardson Dangleben Jr., had to reschedule Smith's sentencing due to his Jan. 6 commitments. The prosecution of Richter's case encountered a complication when it was discovered he shares a name with a White House staffer under President Joe Biden.

A St. Thomas-based lawyer, Matthew Campbell, is traveling to Washington, D.C., to represent a client involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Campbell, a federal public defender, is handling multiple high-profile cases, including the defense of Alfredo Bruce Smith and Richardson Dangleben Jr. The article details the scheduling conflicts and legal proceedings related to these cases, highlighting the extensive involvement of government lawyers in the January 6 cases.

A property dispute in St. Thomas led to the arrest of Charles Comerford, accused of assault and reckless endangerment after allegedly running over a man's foot twice with a car. The incident occurred while the victim was clearing a pathway to a beach. Comerford, who claimed the property was his, was released on $25,000 bail after a court hearing where charges were upheld.

The V.I. Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Rhys Hodge, issued a split decision on Jimmy Davis' case, ruling that the lower court must allow Davis to present his side before setting bail but declining to rule on his jail transfer. Davis, facing charges for the rape of a minor in April 2020, had his bail initially set at $1 million, which he claimed was excessive. The Superior Court later reduced the bail to $250,000. Davis' request for release on his own recognizance was denied due to concerns over his history of prior offenses and potential flight risk. The high court has ordered new hearings to address complaints about Davis' actions.

The V.I. Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice Rhys Hodge, issued a split decision on Jimmy Davis' case, addressing his bail amount without ruling on his demand to be moved from jail. The court found the lower court's bail setting violated judicial principles by not allowing Davis to contest allegations of his past behavior. Davis, charged with the rape of a minor in April 2020, had his bail reduced from $1 million to $250,000. The Superior Court has been directed to hold new hearings where Davis can confront complaints on record, but the court declined jurisdiction over his jail transfer request.

The V.I. Supreme Court issued a split decision in the case of Jimmy Davis, a defendant with a history of violent behavior, regarding his bail amount. Chief Justice Rhys Hodge emphasized the need for courts to base decisions on presented evidence and arguments, criticizing the lower court for setting bail without allowing Davis to present his side. Davis, facing charges related to the rape of a minor, had his bail reduced from $1 million to $250,000 but sought further reduction. The court ordered new hearings to address complaints about Davis' actions but ruled it had no jurisdiction over his jail transfer.

Mary Gleason, a veteran in the hotel and tourism industry, passed away in late December. Originally from Chicago, she moved to the Virgin Islands in 1969 and spent decades working at leading hotels and resorts in St. Thomas, including a 30-year tenure at the Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Resort. Gleason was the first woman to lead the St. Thomas Rotary Club and was actively involved in various community services, including the Family Resource Center and Shaky Acres. She was honored with the Tommy Star Award by the St. Thomas-St. John Hotel and Tourism Association in 2008. Friends and colleagues remember her for her thoughtful nature and significant contributions to the community.

The first hearing in the civil case filed by ousted Senator-at-Large Steven Payne was postponed, with no future hearing dates set. Superior Court Judge Renee Gumbs Carty allowed Payne's lawyer to file their part of a joint final pretrial order for a bench trial scheduled for March 14. Payne's removal from office by the 34th Legislature, following allegations of sexual harassment, is being challenged on the grounds of due process under the U.S. Constitution. The Legislature's attorney, Joseph Arellano, has sought to transfer the case to the V.I. Supreme Court, questioning Judge Gumbs Carty's authority.

A cashier at a St. Thomas Home Depot, Jahmel R. Rivera, was arrested and charged with embezzlement and grand larceny for allegedly taking $4,200 over several days. The store manager reported the incident to the police, providing evidence from register reports and surveillance footage. Rivera admitted to the theft and agreed to repay the store. He was granted bail at $35,000 and will enter a plea at his next hearing on January 12, 2024.

A scheduled hearing in the civil case filed by ousted Senator-at-Large Steven Payne was called off, with the next bench trial set for March. Payne challenges his removal from office by the 34th Legislature, claiming it was illegal and violated due process. The case involves disputes over judicial authority and legislative procedures, with the V.I. Supreme Court petitioned to intervene.

A scheduled hearing in the civil case filed by ousted Senator-at-Large Steven Payne was called off, with the next bench trial set for March. Payne challenges his removal from office by the 34th Legislature, claiming it was illegal and violated his due process rights. The case involves disputes over judicial authority and legislative procedures, with the V.I. Supreme Court being petitioned to transfer the matter.

A cashier at a St. Thomas hardware megastore, Home Depot, was arrested and charged with embezzlement and grand larceny after being accused of taking $4,200 in cash over several days. The store manager provided evidence from surveillance recordings and register slips to the police and Home Depot’s investigation teams. The accused, Jahmel R. Rivera, admitted to the theft and offered to repay the store. Bail was set at $35,000, which Rivera paid. He is scheduled to appear in court on January 12, 2024, to enter a plea.

Retired Superior Court Judge Audrey Thomas-Francis, the first full-time family court judge in the Virgin Islands, passed away on December 25. Appointed by Gov. Charles Turnbull in 2000, she was praised for her professionalism and contributions to the judiciary, including her work in the Family Division and support for youth education. Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach and courts administrator Regina Petersen highlighted her legacy and service to the community.

Retired Superior Court Judge Audrey Thomas-Francis, the first full-time family court judge in the Virgin Islands, passed away on December 25. Appointed by Governor Charles Turnbull in July 2000, she was praised for her professionalism and contributions to the judiciary. She served in the Family Division, handling domestic violence and probate cases, and became a resource for the court. She was also an educator, teaching law courses and English to police officers. Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach expressed condolences and gratitude for her service, including her involvement with the University of the Virgin Islands Board of Trustees.

A Christmas morning domino game in Estate Bovoni was disrupted by gunfire, resulting in one man being hospitalized with a non-fatal head wound. The suspect, Shak-I Ward, was apprehended and charged with multiple offenses, including first- and third-degree assault and illegal discharge of a firearm. Bail was set at $100,000, and Ward is scheduled for arraignment on January 12.

The 47th Challenge of the Carols was held in Emancipation Garden, Charlotte Amalie, with nearly 300 attendees enjoying performances from various choirs and musicians. The event included traditional and new music, with attendees dressed in festive attire. Honorees for various awards were announced, including the Charlotte Amalie High School Rotary Interact Club and Oleik Ledee. Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach delivered season's greetings on behalf of Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. The event is a continuation of a tradition of Christmas caroling in the Virgin Islands.

The Port Authority board renewed a lease with Tropical Shipping for the St. Thomas container port and allocated funds for repairs to the Gordon Finch Molasses Pier on St. Croix, damaged by a faulty WAPA transformer installation. The board also approved a lease renewal with a rent increase for Sandals for You, LLC at Cyril E. King Airport and made a policy change to comply with FAA regulations. Additionally, they authorized quarterly payments for cyber insurance coverage.

The fourth annual Children's Christmas Parade on St. Thomas coincided with the arrival of three cruise ships, bringing heavy traffic and leading to a route change. Participants included various youth groups and ended with snacks and gifts at the Virgin Islands Children’s Museum. The event also paid tribute to Lawrence Olive and Police Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. Bruce Flamon from the Governor’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention expressed his contentment with the parade's success.

St. Thomas was lively with approximately 12,000 cruise ship passengers when the fourth annual Children’s Christmas Parade took place, with a changed route to avoid heavy traffic. Participants included various youth groups and performers, and the event featured a tribute to the late Police Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. Bruce Flamon from the Governor's Office of Gun Violence Prevention expressed his contentment with the parade, which also provided an unexpected holiday treat for tourists. The parade concluded at the Virgin Islands Children's Museum with snacks and gifts for the children. The event was supported by several organizations, including the Office of the Governor and the Office of Gun Violence Prevention.

Omaree Fontaine, 18, made an initial court appearance for charges related to an October strongarm robbery in Havensight, where he and others allegedly stole jewelry from four people. Surveillance footage implicated Fontaine and Nashai Francis, 19, who was later found with a fatal gunshot wound on December 7. Fontaine turned himself in following a police wanted poster and faces multiple charges, with an arraignment set for January 19, 2024. The Virgin Islands Police Department is seeking public assistance in the investigation of Francis' death.

Charges of illegal entry against Colombian national German Saldana-Sanchez were dropped during a federal bench trial in St. Thomas. The court could not prove illegal entry beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense challenged the admissibility of statements made by Sanchez at the airport, citing the Sixth Amendment. The U.S. Attorney’s office filed a motion to dismiss, which was accepted by the court.

Charges of illegal entry against Colombian national German Saldana-Sanchez were dropped during a federal bench trial in St. Thomas. The court could not prove illegal entry beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense challenged the admissibility of statements made by Sanchez at the airport, citing the Sixth Amendment. The U.S. Attorney’s office filed a motion to dismiss, which was accepted by the court.

The Crown Bay Center Holiday Fest on St. Thomas, hosted by the Port Authority at the Austin Monsanto Marine Terminal, marked the start of the festive shopping season. The event attracted locals and over 6,300 passengers from the Wonder of the Seas, featuring shopping, socializing, and live music. Highlights included a Christmas tree lighting by Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe and performances by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Nights, Quelbay Resurrection, and Spectrum Band. Future holiday events include Miracle on Main Street and the Havensight Christmas Tree Lighting.

The Crown Bay Center Holiday Fest in St. Thomas, hosted by the Port Authority at the Austin Monsanto Marine Terminal, marked the start of the festive shopping season. The event attracted locals and over 6,300 passengers from the Wonder of the Seas, featuring shopping, socializing, and live music. Highlights included a Christmas tree lighting by Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe and performances by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Nights, Quelbay Resurrection, and Spectrum Band. Future holiday events include Miracle on Main Street and the Havensight Christmas Tree Lighting.

Residents and tourists on St. Thomas enjoyed the Crown Bay Center Holiday Fest, hosted by the Port Authority at the Austin Monsanto Marine Terminal. The event featured shopping, socializing, and live music, with over 6,300 passengers from the Wonder of the Seas participating. Highlights included a Christmas tree lighting by Port Authority Executive Director Carlton Dowe and performances by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Nights, Quelbay Resurrection, and Spectrum Band. Future holiday events include Miracle on Main Street and the Havensight Christmas Tree Lighting.

The Historic Preservation Commission approved renovation and repair plans for Drakes Passage Shopping Mall and the former J. Antonio Jarvis School in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. The Jarvis School, dating back to the Danish West Indies era, is set to become an educational and cultural center, with Nadine Marchena-Kean discussing the challenges and necessary repairs. Sean Krigger commended the project and offered Danish bricks for the restoration. Royal Dane Mall's repair plan, presented by Tom Avitable, includes controversial demolition of fire-damaged Danish-era walls. The commission rejected the installation of awnings over facade windows but acknowledged the need for extensive repairs. The revitalization efforts aim to foster community pride and encourage revitalization in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Historic Preservation Commission approved renovation and repair plans for historical structures in St. Thomas, including Drakes Passage Shopping Mall and the former J. Antonio Jarvis School. Efforts to revitalize the Jarvis School into an educational and cultural center were discussed by Nadine Marchena-Kean, with Sean Krigger expressing support. Architectural Consultant Tom Avitable presented a 10-step plan for Royal Dane Mall, which faced controversy over the demolition of Danish-era warehouse walls. The commission rejected the installation of awnings over facade windows but acknowledged the need for repairs. Work is expected to take 1 to 1.5 years to complete.

The Historic Preservation Commission approved renovation and repair plans for Drakes Passage Shopping Mall and the former J. Antonio Jarvis School in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas. The 171-year-old Jarvis School is set to become an educational and cultural center, with community groups and the Enterprise Zone Commission, led by Nadine Marchena-Kean, working on its revitalization. Sean Krigger from the Planning and Natural Resources Historic Preservation praised the efforts and offered Danish bricks for the project. Architectural Consultant Tom Avitable presented a 10-step plan for Royal Dane Mall, including controversial demolition of fire-damaged walls. The commission rejected the installation of awnings over facade windows. Work on the projects is expected to take 1 to 1.5 years, aiming to instill pride in the territory's history and encourage community revitalization.

Quasheem Christian, a 23-year-old St. Croix utility worker, is accused of an execution-style murder on St. Thomas and is scheduled for arraignment in early 2024. He made an initial court appearance on Dec. 6 and is being held on $1 million bail. The victim, Chandler Heath, was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds on Jan. 29. The investigation included witness statements, surveillance video, and social media conversations, leading to Christian's arrest. The next court appearance is set for Jan. 5.

Community groups, including the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority's Sigma Theta Omega Chapter, are actively participating in recycling efforts on St. John. The sorority members, along with their families and neighbors, contributed significantly to the Island Green Living Center's recycling program by collecting and sorting plastic containers. The initiative, part of the sorority's Re-use, Recycle Initiative, has already surpassed initial collection goals, with plans to continue and expand their efforts. The Island Green Living Association, led by Jay Bowman and Hairith Wickrema, emphasizes the importance of community involvement and proper sorting to enhance recycling efficiency.

Quasheem Christian, a utility worker from St. Croix, is accused of an execution-style murder in St. Thomas and is set to appear in court for arraignment in early 2024. Arrested by the Virgin Islands Police Department, Christian faces charges of first- and second-degree murder and related weapons charges, with bail set at one million dollars. The victim, Chandler Heath, was found dead in a tow truck in Bolongo Bay. The investigation includes witness statements, surveillance video, and social media conversations. Christian's next court appearance is scheduled for January 5.

Entrepreneurs showcased their goods and services at the Shop Local Small Business Expo at Fort Christian, attracting a steady stream of visitors. Vendors like Sharon Wade and Shaun Doguge reported positive experiences, while Ben Kraft introduced his new service, St. Thomas Cooks. Sophia de Rosario promoted EBM Academy of Cosmetology, and Keya Chongasing-Garner demonstrated a solar battery control panel. The event also featured a mini fashion show, promoting next year's Fashionista event.

A suspect in a gang-related robbery, Omaree Fontaine, appeared in Superior Court facing multiple charges. The incident, which occurred near Paradise Bistro and Bar in Havensight on Oct. 29, involved several suspects and resulted in stolen jewelry. Surveillance footage identified another suspect, Nashai Francis, who later died from a gunshot wound on Dec. 7. Fontaine turned himself in after a wanted poster was issued, and the court upheld the charges against him. The police are seeking public assistance in investigating Francis' death.

Charges of illegal entry against Colombian national German Saldana-Sanchez were dropped during a federal bench trial in St. Thomas. The court could not prove illegal entry beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense challenged the circumstances of Sanchez's detention, citing the Sixth Amendment. The trial resumed after a magistrate's order, but the U.S. Attorney's office filed a motion to dismiss due to insufficient admissible evidence. The court accepted the motion, and the case was dismissed.

The annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarship Awards Ceremony at the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas honored eight high school students from the St. Thomas-St. John District for their community service and essays reflecting King's principles. The event featured speeches from students on topics such as environmental concerns, healthcare disparities, and unity among people. Rabbi Julia Margolis and UVI Provost Camille McKayle praised the students for their efforts and encouraged them to incorporate King's attributes into their lives.

Three nominees for cabinet posts in the U.S. Virgin Islands, selected by Governor Albert Bryan, received approval from the Senate Committee on Rules and the Judiciary. Harriette Nathalie Hodge, Louis Petersen, and Kevin McCurdy were praised for their dedication and experience, though not all votes were unanimous. Hodge, nominated for Licensing and Consumer Affairs, was commended for her long service. Petersen, returning to Agriculture, highlighted staffing and salary issues. McCurdy, the newest nominee for Finance, addressed the need for improved working conditions and administrative efficiency. All nominations will proceed to the full Senate for final consideration.

A scheduled hearing in the civil case filed by ousted Senator-at-Large Steven Payne was called off by Superior Court Judge Renee Gumbs Carty. The case, which challenges Payne's removal from office by the 34th Legislature, is set for a bench trial in March. Payne claims his expulsion was illegal and violated due process. Legislative counsel Joseph Arellano has petitioned the V.I. Supreme Court to transfer the case, arguing that Judge Gumbs Carty's term had expired. The court has yet to decide on the petition.

Retired Superior Court Judge Audrey Thomas-Francis, the first full-time family court judge in the Virgin Islands, passed away on December 25. Appointed by Gov. Charles Turnbull in 2000, she was praised for her professionalism and contributions to the judiciary, particularly in handling domestic violence and probate cases. Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach and courts administrator Regina Petersen expressed their condolences, highlighting her role as an educator and community contributor. Thomas-Francis retired in 2012 after a distinguished career, including service on the University of the Virgin Islands Board of Trustees.

Holiday shopping season began on St. Thomas with the Crown Bay Center Holiday Fest, hosted by the Port Authority at the Austin Monsanto Marine Terminal. The event attracted locals and over 6,300 passengers from the Wonder of the Seas, featuring shopping, socializing, and live music. Highlights included a blend of Christmas and Carnival themes by jeweler Charles Matthew and performances by Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Nights, Quelbay Resurrection, and Spectrum Band. Future events include Miracle on Main Street and the Havensight Christmas Tree Lighting.

Trevor Stephen, a convicted drug trafficker involved in a high-speed chase across St. Thomas, was sentenced to 37 months in prison. He was found guilty of drug possession but not conspiracy. The chase, captured by surveillance cameras, ended with Stephen and his codefendant Russell Robinson's apprehension. Robinson faced a mistrial and was retried, resulting in a guilty verdict. Chief District Judge Robert Molloy denied Stephen's motion for a new trial.

A St. Thomas-based federal public defender, Matthew Campbell, is traveling to Washington, D.C., to represent a client involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. Campbell's commitments to this case have led to delays in other local cases, including the sentencing of Alfredo Bruce Smith and the trial of Richardson Dangleben Jr. The article highlights the extensive involvement of government lawyers from various jurisdictions in handling the numerous cases related to the Capitol riot.

In a heartfelt gathering at Emancipation Garden, the community mourned the tragic loss of 9-year-old Ja’Qeada Isaac, who drowned in Charlotte Amalie Harbor. Her mother, Anyah Smith, has been charged with first-degree murder. Friends, family, and local leaders, including Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington and Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach, paid tribute to Isaac, remembering her as a joyful and energetic child. The event featured performances by young musicians and dancers, highlighting the deep impact Isaac had on those around her.

The article discusses the adoption of telemedicine in the Virgin Islands as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. With social distancing as a key strategy to prevent the virus's spread, health officials and providers shifted to virtual consultations to protect both patients and healthcare workers. Dr. Tai Hunte from the Department of Health promoted telemedicine use across the territory, and the CDC's guidance supported this move. Frederiksted Clinic on St. Croix and Red Hook Family Practice were highlighted as examples of healthcare providers who implemented telemedicine. The article also mentions the use of platforms like MDLive, TeleDoc, Zoom, and Doxy.me for remote consultations. The experience with telemedicine during the pandemic is seen as a potential catalyst for future advancements in the local healthcare system.

The article recounts the experiences of several individuals who played key roles during Hurricane Irma's impact on the Virgin Islands. Irvin Mason, the St. John Disaster Response Coordinator, describes the harrowing experience at VITEMA's emergency operations center when the roof was torn off. Athniel 'Addie' Ottley, President of Ottley Communications, shares how WSTA radio station remained operational throughout the storm. Ernest Matthias, Deputy Chief of the Virgin Islands Fire Service, details his personal experience and the challenges faced by the fire service. Darryl Smalls, Sr. Vice President of Operations at Schneider Regional Medical Center, discusses how the hospital managed during the hurricane. The article provides a detailed look at the resilience and response of the community and emergency services during a Category 5 hurricane.

Jay Titlow, a senior meteorologist with WeatherFlow, shared his astonishment at the data collected on Hurricanes Irma and Maria, with sustained winds exceeding 170 mph. Speaking at the first meeting of OCOVI in Charlotte Amalie, he detailed the storms' intensity and the challenges in measuring such extreme weather. Various devices, including airport tower monitors and ocean buoys, are used to measure hurricane wind speeds, but their reliability can be compromised in such conditions. Some instruments were lost during the storms, and the Caribbean Ocean Observing System Buoy off St. Thomas was reported lost. The need for improved Caribbean-based weather data was emphasized, especially as the National Climate Assessment is being completed, which includes the Caribbean for the first time. The article also mentions the collaboration with CARICOOS and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration in data sharing.

The Love City Car Show in Coral Bay, initially facing a low turnout due to a hurricane, ended up being a success with a variety of vehicles on display. Promoter Jay Swartley reported a good number of cars, trucks, and a motorcycle, including notable models like Ford Mustangs, a Volkswagen bug, and a BMW. Participants like Lemuel Liburd and Bobby Fleming showcased their vehicles' interiors and engines, while Austin Thomas displayed a custom grill on his pickup. The event also featured entertainment for children and a sound system contest. Proceeds from the previous year's event were donated to a local non-profit, and there was hope that the 2017 show might also support charity.