Local Audubon Club Invites Artists to Show Their Bird Art on St. John

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Local Audubon Club Invites Artists to Show Their Bird Art on St. John

The National Audubon Society of the Virgin Islands is inviting artists who paint, photograph, sculpt, or otherwise depict birds to show their work at a one-day pop-up art show scheduled for March 21 at Coconut Coast Studios on St. John.

Photographs by Gail Karlsson. (Submitted photo)

Elaine Estern, the owner of Coconut Coast Studios, said she would clear out the gallery for the show so that only bird art will be featured.  Participating artists are asked to purchase a membership to the Audubon Society for $30 or make a donation to the non-profit organization. Art work for the show must be brought to the gallery on Friday, March 20.

“There is no limit on size of art, but the birds must be local Virgin Islands birds,” said Estern, who serves on the board of the local Audubon Society chapter. Coconut Coast Studios is located at Frank Bay, right next to a 2.4-acre pond, which has been adopted by the V.I. Audubon Society.

Hand-pulled silkscreen by Lisa Etre. (Submitted photo)

The artwork can be for sale, and participating artists can price the art as they wish. “I want nothing to do with the money,”  Estern said.  She suggested that artists add a price, a name, and a phone number along with each piece, “so that if someone does not buy it that night, an interested person can get a hold of you.”

For further information, please contact Estern at elaine_estern@mac.com.

“Thank you for helping us all pass along the beauty of our birds on island,” she added.

Three Suspects Arrested for Assaulting Victim at Blue Bambou

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Three Suspects Arrested for Assaulting Victim at Blue Bambou

An arrest warrant was obtained from the Superior Court on Jan. 26, and on Jan. 27, three suspects were arrested and booked, facing charges of assault third degree and simple assault and battery, reported the Virgin Islands Police Department.

Jamalia Hendrickson, 32, Craig Hendrickson, 61, and Renisha Allick Randolph, 35, were charged in connection with an incident in October 2025 where an adult female victim reported that she was physically assaulted while at the Blue Bambou Club. The victim stated that she was punched repeatedly and then struck with an object on her face, causing visible injuries to the left side of her face, according to a police report.

Jamalia Hendrickson and Craig Hendrickson, were released after paying $500 bail each. Allick Randolph, was unable to post her $25,000 bail and was remanded to the John Bell Adult Correction Facility. All three suspects are pending advice of rights.

St. Croix Woman Arrested for Attempted Murder

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St. Croix Woman Arrested for Attempted Murder

An arrest warrant was obtained from the Superior Court on Jan. 27, and Renisha Allick Randolph, 35, was booked and faces the charge of attempted murder first degree, reported the Virgin Islands Police Department.

The charge is in connection to an incident June 16, 2025. The 911 Emergency Call Center received a report of a reckless driver in the Whim residential area. A detective of the Criminal Investigation Bureau was assigned to investigate the matter. Contact was made with witnesses in the area who disclosed that Allick Randolph assaulted an elderly male and that while she was attempting to flee the area, she struck a citizen with her vehicle causing injuries, according to a police report.

She was unable to post bail of $100,000 and was remanded to the John Bell Adult Correction Facility pending an advice of rights hearing.

Domestic Violence Unit Arrests Rehelio Trant for Sexual Assault

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Domestic Violence Unit Arrests Rehelio Trant for Sexual Assault

On Tuesday, Jan.27, at about 3:40 p.m., Rehelio Trant, who was already in lawful custody, was advised of a warrant for his arrest and the associated charges. Trant, age 47, was subsequently placed under arrest for unlawful sexual contact (DV), assault in the third degree (DV), aggravated assault and battery (DV), and child abuse, reported the Virgin Islands Police Department.

These charges are in connection with incidents in 2024, where, according to a police report, officers traveled to the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on Dec. 24, 2024, regarding an attempt to commit suicide case. Upon arrival, officers met with the victim, who stated that she was sexually assaulted by a family member and, as a result, she wanted to commit suicide. Subsequently, the victim was interviewed by detectives of the Domestic Violence Unit and supporting investigative agencies. The victim stated that Trant sexually assaulted her shortly after he was released from prison. During the investigation, a minor female family member told detectives that she was also sexually assaulted by Trant.

Trant’s bail was set at $150,000. He was booked, processed, and returned to the Bureau of Corrections pending his advice of rights hearing.

This case is currently under investigation by the Domestic Violence Unit. Anyone who has information about this crime can notify 911, the Domestic Violence Unit at 340-715-5535, or the Office of the Police.

Woman Wanted for Assault Incident in Crown Bay Center Surrendered to Police

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Woman Wanted for Assault Incident in Crown Bay Center Surrendered to Police

On Tuesday, Jan. 27, at approximately 9:38 a.m., Imai Demming, 27 years old, surrendered herself at the Richard N. Callwood Command Criminal Investigation Bureau, reported the Virgin Islands Police Department.

She was charged with assault in the third degree, simple assault, mayhem, reckless endangerment, instigating/aiding a fight, and disturbance of the peace (fight), in connection with an incident reported in October 2025.

According to a police report, a female victim reported that she was assaulted by a female assailant while inside the restroom at Crown Bay Center on Oct. 7, 2025. The victim stated that while washing her hands in the restroom, the assailant punched, scratched, and bit her on the right side of her face. An investigation later revealed that Demming was the suspect in this matter.

Anyone who has information regarding this incident is encouraged to notify the 911 Emergency Call Center or Detective E. Rijo of the Criminal Investigation Bureau at 340-774-2211. Anonymous tips may also be left by contacting Crime Stoppers V.I. at 1-800-222-8477(TIPS). The VIPD assures the public that all tips will be kept confidential, and contributors may remain anonymous.

VIPD Investigates Fatal Auto Collision on Midland Road

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VIPD Investigates Fatal Auto Collision on Midland Road

The 911 Emergency Call Center dispatched police officers at approximately 2:14 a.m. to an automobile collision on Midland Road on Monday, Jan. 26, reported the Virgin Islands Police Department.

The Traffic Investigation Bureau’s preliminary investigation revealed that there were seven individuals involved in this collision. Five individuals were taken to the Juan F. Luis Hospital for medical treatment. One of the vehicle occupants, 36-year-old Alberto Lawerence, was pronounced deceased by an Emergency Room physician and was positively identified by his next of kin. Also, 57-year-old  Angel Miguel Felix Cortez, a pedestrian, was pronounced deceased at the scene and was later positively identified by his next of kin, according to the police report.

This collision is under investigation by the VIPD Traffic Investigation Bureau, St. Croix District.

Shorthanded Lady Dashing Eagles Trounced by Deep Dominican Republic Squad

Mat Probasco
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Shorthanded Lady Dashing Eagles Trounced by Deep Dominican Republic Squad
The scoreboard may tell one story, but the full truth of this match belongs to the U17 Lady Dashing Eagles of the U.S. Virgin Islands, a team that refused to fold, refused to quit, and walked off the pitch with heads held high despite an 11–0 result against a superior and well-resourced opponent. Facing a daunting challenge in the CONCACAF Women’s Under-17 Qualifiers, the Lady Dashing Eagles arrived shorthanded and under pressure. Five players were unable to make the trip at the last second, forcing the team to compete with just 12 brave athletes against a deep and talented side. The odds were stacked high long before kickoff, but if heart counted on the scoreboard, this would have been a very different game. The opening half tested the Lady Dashing Eagles in every way. The opposition came out sharp and relentless, capitalizing on their depth and cohesion to build an early lead. Yet even as the scoreline grew, the U.S. Virgin Islands never stopped working. Every sprint, every tackle, every recovery run spoke to a group determined to represent their country with pride. Then came the second half and with it, a powerful response. After conceding eight goals in the first period, the Lady Dashing Eagles regrouped, reset, and dug deep. The second half told a story of resilience and adjustment. Against the same high-level opposition, they allowed just three goals after the break, a clear reflection of improved organization, grit, and belief. Defensive shape tightened. Communication grew louder. Effort surged. Each player went out and gave everything she had. With no substitutes to rotate fresh legs and fatigue setting in, the 12 girls who made the journey continued to battle for every ball. They pressed when they could, tracked back tirelessly, and supported one another through every difficult moment. It was football stripped down to its purest form, effort, sacrifice, and unity. This was a loss on paper, but it was also a powerful statement. To watch this young group represent the U.S. Virgin Islands under such circumstances was nothing short of inspiring. Missing nearly half a squad, facing a clearly superior opponent, and still competing with courage speaks volumes about the character of this team. These young women did not measure themselves by the scoreline, they measured themselves by how they showed up for each other. And the team spirit? Unshaken. Despite the result, morale remains high within the Lady Dashing Eagles camp. There is belief in the group, pride in the badge, and confidence that brighter moments lie ahead. Matches like this, as tough as they are, forge identity and resilience. They build teams. They create leaders. The U17 Lady Dashing Eagles may have walked off the field without the result they wanted, but they walked off together, stronger, closer, and more determined. Against the odds, against adversity, and against a powerful opponent, they showed exactly who they are.

Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center Relaunched

Mat Probasco
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Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center Relaunched
The University of the Virgin Islands, through its College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, is proud to announce the official relaunch of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center. The relaunch reception will be held Friday, Feb. 13, from noon to 2 p.m. at the R.T. Park Conference Suite on UVI’s Albert A. Sheen Campus, with a livestream option available for virtual attendees. RSVP: Guests are encouraged to register in advance via the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center on Eventbrite at https://sl1nk.com/WbAWv. Established in November 2012, the VICCC serves as a vital institution dedicated to the preservation, cultivation, research, education, and celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean. The relaunch reflects a renewed commitment to UVI’s mission of being “Historically American, Uniquely Caribbean, and Globally Interactive,” and aligns with the University’s G.R.A.N.D. Momentum Strategic Plan (2025–2030). The reception will provide an exclusive preview of the Center’s future direction, highlighting its role in advancing UVI’s accreditation through focused cultural research, scholarly publications, specialized academic programming, and regional initiatives. This includes support for the pending Ph.D. in Caribbean Studies, facilitated by faculty within CLASS. Attendees will learn more about the VICCC’s comprehensive approach, which includes:
  • Academic Excellence: Advancing state-of-the-art research and innovative mixed-media programming in Caribbean Studies, cultural heritage preservation, creative arts, and related disciplines.
  • Collaborative Partnerships: Strengthening regional and international networks among scholars, heritage tourism professionals, and cultural and creative practitioners.
  • Community Engagement: Developing interactive, culturally authentic programs that honor and celebrate the Caribbean’s intergenerational history, heritage, and traditions.
Dr. Chenzira Davis Kahina, Director of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center, stated, “The VICCC is more than an institutional center—it is a beacon for cultural research, heritage education, identity, and global engagement. We invite community members, scholars, creative artists, and philanthropic partners to join us as we embark on this next chapter of growth and innovation.” In addition to its academic and cultural objectives, the relaunch serves as a call to action for investors, philanthropic foundations, and donors. The VICCC is actively seeking support to expand its initiatives, collections, and facilities, further strengthening its role as a premier cultural resource for the Virgin Islands and the broader Caribbean region. About the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center: The Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center, housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at the University of the Virgin Islands, serves as a dynamic hub for cultural research, creative production, educational technology, arts exhibitions, and heritage preservation. The Center is dedicated to advancing educational engagement, safeguarding accurate cultural narratives, and celebrating the complex and vibrant history of the Caribbean. Through innovative scholarship, interdisciplinary intellectual exchange, creative and performative arts, culturally sustainable media, and community-centered programming, the VICCC supports the preservation and promotion of Caribbean heritage while fostering local, regional, and global dialogue. For more information about the event contact Dr. Chenzira Davis Kahina, VICCC Director, chenzira.daviskahina@uvi.edu (340) 692-4123.

Eleven Arrested in St. Croix Medicaid Fraud Probe; DHS Employees Among Those Taken Into Custody

Source Staff
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Eleven Arrested in St. Croix Medicaid Fraud Probe; DHS Employees Among Those Taken Into Custody
Updated | 5 p.m. Wednesday Prosecutors say an alleged Medicaid and SNAP fraud scheme cost the territory more than $309,000, as the Virgin Islands Department of Justice confirmed Wednesday afternoon that 11 people were charged following a coordinated sweep on St. Croix involving Department of Human Services employees and community members.

According to the DOJ, the arrests stem from a 20-month investigation conducted by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, which found that DHS employees allegedly abused their access to government computer systems to manipulate Medicaid and SNAP eligibility, allowing benefits to be issued unlawfully.

The DOJ identified the following defendants:

  • Doenyka Lewis, Medicaid Assistance Program (MAP) employee
  • Shanoya Hendrickson, MAP employee, and her mother Karen Blyden
  • Clarissa L. Nunez, SNAP employee, and her mother Carmen Nunez
  • Shantenysha Victor, MAP employee
  • Kenera Sheneal Frederick, MAP employee, and her mother Sharon Olivia Henry
  • Lisaminelli Montanez, SNAP employee, and her partner Shane Gaston

Authorities said Akim Noel Davis, the husband of Shantenysha Victor, has not yet been apprehended, and a wanted bulletin has been issued for his arrest.

According to the DOJ, the defendants face a range of charges that include: Medicaid fraud, accessing a computer for fraudulent purposes, fraudulent claims against the government, and embezzlement and falsification of public records.

The arrests were carried out simultaneously at DHS offices in Estate Hannah’s Rest and at multiple private residences across St. Croix, a strategy authorities often use in multi-defendant cases to prevent coordination or evidence destruction.

Speaking with the Source on Wednesday, Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. emphasized that the case was handled by the local Department of Justice, not federal authorities. The DOJ’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit was first certified in 2018 and has been recertified every year since, allowing the territory to independently investigate and prosecute Medicaid fraud cases.

Earlier in the day, Bryan called the alleged scheme “deeply troubling,” noting that Medicaid exists to serve the territory’s most vulnerable residents and that exploiting the program constitutes a breach of public trust.

As of Wednesday afternoon, at least four of the defendants had been processed and booked, with additional court proceedings expected as remaining arrestees are processed.

The Department of Justice said the investigation remains ongoing and that additional investigative steps are underway.

Anyone with information related to Medicaid fraud is encouraged to contact the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit at 888-404-MFCU or vimfcu@doj.vi.gov.

10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28 A coordinated sweep early Wednesday morning resulted in 11 arrests on St. Croix as part of an alleged Medicaid fraud scheme that has, according to Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., been under investigation for months. The arrests unfolded at multiple locations, including offices of the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services in Estate Hannah’s Rest and private residences across the island, law enforcement sources confirmed. As of 1 p.m. Wednesday, at least four of those arrested had been processed and booked, with others still awaiting processing. Human Services officials confirmed that at least three of those arrested are DHS employees, while the remaining individuals are members of the community, including alleged program recipients and individuals connected to the medical sector. Officials cautioned that details remain limited as the investigation is ongoing. Bryan told the Source the arrests were the result of months of work by the V.I. Department of Justice’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, with assistance from local law enforcement. At the time of publication, formal charging documents had not been released, with both Justice and the Virgin Islands Police Department, which handled the arrests, said additional information would be provided once filings are complete. In a written statement issued later Wednesday, Bryan described the allegations as “deeply troubling,” emphasizing that Medicaid is intended to serve the territory’s most vulnerable residents. “Any effort to exploit it is an attack on the public trust and a theft from the people of the Virgin Islands,” Bryan said. “Let me be clear. I have zero tolerance for corruption, self-dealing, or anyone using public office or public programs for private gain.” Bryan linked the arrests to commitments he reiterated during his 2026 State of the Territory Address, where he pledged to “stamp out corruption, wherever it appears,” and urged residents to report suspected wrongdoing. He also commended Human Services Commissioner Averil George for cooperating with investigators and assisting the DOJ’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. “My administration will continue to support every lawful effort to uncover wrongdoing, recover misused funds, and hold accountable anyone who violates the public trust,” Bryan said. DHS Confirms Internal Tip Triggered Investigation The Department of Human Services confirmed Wednesday that the investigation began with an internal tip to the department’s Program Integrity Team, which was then referred to the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for further action. In its own statement, DHS said it was “deeply troubled” by the arrests, which involve employees within its Medical Assistance Program and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, along with community members. “The Department holds all employees to the highest standards of ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability,” DHS said. “Any actions that compromise public trust or undermine the integrity of our mission will not be tolerated.” DHS said it is cooperating fully with local authorities and has already begun taking steps to strengthen internal oversight and safeguards within its programs. Officials stressed that the alleged actions of a few do not reflect the work of the department’s broader staff. The Source is awaiting formal statements from the Department of Justice and VIPD, which are expected to outline charges, court dates, and the scope of the alleged fraud. This is a developing story. The Source will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

Theodore Robinson Dies at 63

Mat Probasco
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Theodore Robinson Dies at 63
Our beloved friend, brother and neighbor Theodore “Ted” Robinson passed away peacefully Dec. 2, 2025 after a short illness. Ted, owned and operated Ted’s Supper Club where he served his renowned food and expressed his culinary talents and artistry to beloved patrons on St. John for over 15 years.
Theodore Robinson
Ted was the second child of John and Peggy Robinson and is survived by his three siblings John J. Robinson Jr, Marguerite “Meg” McDonough and Matthew Robinson; his four nephews Cullen Robinson, Shane Robinson, Sean McDonough and Patrick Robinson and his niece and goddaughter, Marguerite Mae Robinson; and his St. John family Kim Lyons, Savannah Lyons Anthony, Maria Wesselhoft, Brenda Sonson-Stephenson, Mary Ferguson, and his best girl Juno. Born in Philadelphia, PA on March 7, 1962, Ted attended St. Katherine of Sienna Elementary school where he was a star basketball player and graduated from Wilson High School in 1980. In his late teenage years, Ted found his life’s calling, cooking. He often cited his grandmother’s dedication in the kitchen as his earliest inspiration. Though he was an incredible chef and trained culinary artist, Ted was firm in calling himself a “cook.” He enjoyed working hard, making people happy and the artistic freedom he found in the kitchen. Ted attended and graduated from the Culinary Institute of American in Hyde Park, New York, which led to a beautiful career that spanned 40 years and took him across the country and back. His passion for food and adventure led him from New York to Michigan, Nevada, Northern California, Rehoboth Beach and the Florida Keys before making his home on St. John in the late 90’s. There, Ted built a beautiful home in Fish Bay where he gardened, cooked, hosted many a guest and party; creating a beautiful island life for almost 30 years. Ted’s unwavering commitment to his craft, his kindness to his neighbors and his warm, generous smile impacted many people during his time on St. John. Whether it was a family meal at Paradiso, dinner service at Tage, or any of the many weddings or private dinners he made memorable, Ted treated every meal as if he were cooking for a friend and encouraged everyone around him to care for one another in the same way. Those who knew him will miss him for his love, laughter and the ways he cared for us. Ted, we thank you and we love you. Ted is preceded in death by his parents John and Peggy, dogs Meritage and Bailey, and many other furry friends too numerous to mention A celebration of Ted’s life will be held at Oppenheimer Beach on St. John, Feb. 7 at 11 a.m. We will further celebrate him in a private ceremony in Philadelphia on March 7. In lieu of flowers we ask that donations be sent to the St. John Animal Care Center, in memory of Ted. www.stjohnanimalcarecenter.com.
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