Three men were arrested Tuesday during a joint law enforcement operation targeting violent crime. The Virgin Islands Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau, Special Operations Bureau and federal agents executed multiple search and arrest warrants as part of Operation “Open Faces.”
Luis Noel, Donnie Heywood, and Shango Allick Sr. were taken into custody and transported to the Rainbow Building for processing and booking. Noel and Heywood, who were unable to post bail, were remanded to the John Bell Correctional Facility pending their advice of rights hearing Wednesday in Superior Court. Allick was released on his own recognizance and is scheduled to appear in court the same day, according to the police report.
“During this operation, we saw firsthand the power of agencies working together to combat crime and make our community safer,” said Virgin Islands Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea. “Commissioner Brooks and I are proud of the relentless efforts from our team, the DOJ, and VIPD in successfully coordinating the search and arrest warrants. Together, we are making significant strides toward reducing crime and building a safer, stronger community for everyone.”
Noel, 19, was charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, unauthorized possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, possession of ammunition, and discharging a firearm. His charges stem from a Jan. 7 incident at the Sunny Isles parking lot near the Food Court. His bail was set at $100,000, the police report stated.
Noel was also charged in connection with a Jan. 26 incident on Queen Street in Frederiksted. Charges include first-degree attempted murder, first-degree assault, third-degree assault, first-degree reckless endangerment, unauthorized possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, possession of ammunition, discharging a firearm, and unauthorized possession of a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school. Bail for the second case was also set at $100,000, the report stated.
Heywood, 18, was arrested for his role in the same Jan. 7 incident at Sunny Isles. He faces charges of first-degree reckless endangerment, unauthorized possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, possession of ammunition, and discharging a firearm. His bail was also set at $100,000, it said.
A search warrant executed at the residence of 43-year-old Allick led to the discovery of marijuana, resulting in his arrest on charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, it said.
“Today’s operation marks a significant step in our relentless pursuit of justice,” said VIPD Commissioner Mario Brooks. “These acts of reckless disregard will not be tolerated, and we will bring those responsible to justice. This achievement is a testament to the unwavering commitment and collaboration between the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Virgin Islands Department of Justice. Together, we will continue to send a clear message — if you engage in violent crime in our territory, we will find you, we will arrest you, and you will be held accountable.”
