Judge Orders Legal Teams in Dangleben Case to Argue Pending Motions

Chief District Judge Robert Molloy is presiding over a multiday omnibus hearing for accused cop killer Richardson Danngleben, Jr. (Source file photo)

Legal teams preparing for trial in the 2023 death of Police Detective Delberth Phipps Jr. have until Aug. 1 to file arguments over challenges posed by the defendant accused in connection with his death. Chief District Court Judge Robert Molloy issued the directive on Friday after hearing two days of pretrial testimony.

Since July 28, prosecutors and defense attorneys have sat for an omnibus hearing designed to address all motions filed in the case of USA v Richardson Dangleben Jr. Dangleben was arrested July 4, 2023, after an armed confrontation with Phipps in Hospital Ground. The hearing is scheduled to resume on Monday with testimony by potential expert witnesses, and continue through at least Tuesday.

One expert witness has already been excluded, based on proceedings in last week’s hearing.

Jury selection is set to begin Oct. 6 in District Court.

The defendant is facing more than a dozen criminal charges, including first-degree murder, assault, and weapons possession. The U.S. Justice Department under the administration of President Donald Trump reversed an earlier ruling removing the death penalty as a possible outcome if Dangleben is found guilty at trial.

Lawyers from the Office of the Federal Public Defender are challenging that reversal, and have also filed motions to remove consideration of criminal charges stemming from the Feb. 24 shooting death of Keith Jennings.

Dangleben was also arrested and charged with homicide in connection with that incident. His lawyers are also asking the court for a change of venue, claiming that pretrial publicity will make it difficult to choose an impartial jury.

“The fact that on Feb. 24th Mr. Dangleben may have shot Mr. Jennings has no tendency to make it more or less probable that Mr. Dangleben murdered Detective Phipps,” said court documents filed by the defense.

Photo Focus: St. Croix Hosts Week of Celebration for Inaugural V.I. Rastafari Day

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Empress Trisha and Kareem Henry at Buddhoe Park for a Cultural Day in celebration of the Rastafari community. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

A weeklong celebration marking the inaugural Virgin Islands Rastafari Day wrapped up Saturday on St. Croix, honoring the legacy, resilience, and spiritual traditions of the Rastafari community.

Seiko Joseph and Makonnen Joseph celebrate and listen to the music as the sunset in Frederiksted for Cultural Day celebration. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

The official observance, held Wednesday, July 23, followed a proclamation signed by Gov. Albert Bryan Jr., which not only establishes Rastafari Day but also includes an official apology to the community for decades of oppression and religious persecution.

Attendees shared testimonies and discussions at Buddhoe Park Wednesday. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

The celebration began with a Nyahbinghi Opening Ceremony on Tuesday at Serenity Nest, followed by a Rastafari Cultural Day on Wednesday at General Buddhoe Park. On Saturday, festivities continued with a motorcade and another Cultural Day at the Agriculture Department Fairgrounds.

Music played in Frederiksted Wednesday as attendees listened and enjoyed. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

At the cultural events, attendees gathered to share music, testimonies, and spiritual fellowship. On Saturday, local vendors showcased their products while live bands filled the air with vibrant sounds, creating a joyful and reflective atmosphere as the community celebrated under the evening sun.

Philos Saint Lucia sells natural remedies at the Agriculture Fair Grounds for Cultural Day. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

Similar events also took place on St. Thomas and St. John.

A key aspect of the governor’s proclamation acknowledges the Rastafari community’s long-standing knowledge of the cannabis plant, particularly its health benefits and its sacramental use in spiritual ceremonies. The proclamation emphasizes that cannabis “brings them closer to the Almighty and His creation,” and aligns with Act No. 8680, signed into law on Jan. 18, 2023, which legalized the sacramental use of cannabis in the Virgin Islands.

Khmwrya Jackson, secretary of the V.I. Rastafari Sacramental Cannabis Council, shares her story of being a Rastafarian in the Virgin Islands. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

“The stone that the builders refused has become the head cornerstone, and the main thread that holds the fabric of our community together. Although we were persecuted and prosecuted, we were still able to bring positive vibrations and help to lift the consciousness of our community on all levels,” said Tafari Tzaddi, president of the V.I. Rastafari Sacramental Cannabis Council Inc. and a minister in the Theocracy Reign of the Ancient Ivine Order of the Nyahbinghi.

Attendees enjoy music and good vibes at the Agriculture Fair Grounds on Saturday. (Source photo by Diana Dias)

The week of events was hosted by VIRSCC Inc., in collaboration with the Theocracy Reign of the Ancient Ivine Order of the Nyahbinghi and the Virgin Islands Rastafari community, in celebration of both Rastafari Day and the 133rd Earth Light (birthday) of Emperor Haile Selassie I.

Students Build Architecture Knowledge With VIAC Program

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Family and friends gathered around vernacular homes built by students of the VI Architecture Center for Build Heritage and Crafts. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

A four-week program, hosted by the VI Architecture Center for Built Heritage and Crafts, was designed to build a social and climate-resilient history of architecture for approximately a dozen high school students on St. Croix. The course culminated Friday with presentations by the students about the curriculum and the model houses they built.

It was clear the students had formed bonds with each other and the staff as they excitedly explained their projects to an audience of family and friends. They also talked about the segments of the course.

“I enjoyed the field trips. They offered a more interactive way of learning – just being more engaged with the island itself,” Kianna Maldonado said.

Her brother, Eliasim Maldonado, said he liked learning about the indigenous plants and trees during the Featherleaf Inn field trip.

Aundre Dolcar said he liked learning some of the skills he will need to become an architectural engineer.

Aundre Dolcar explained that a “shotgun” house was a long, narrow row house that, if a bullet was shot at one end, it would come out the other end without touching the walls. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

During the course, students learned trade skills, such as masonry, woodworking, architecture, engineering, drone photography and 3D printing. The instructors’ and interns’ goals were “to foster an understanding of how modern tools and traditional crafts can work together to preserve and sustain our rich cultural legacy,” according to the program overview.

The session on drones showed the students that a different perspective can be obtained with photos taken above the subject. The 3D printing class helped them create specific items used in old homes. They made doors, gingerbread patterns and mahogany furniture replicas to scale. One student from last year used the stipend he earned to purchase a 3D printer.

The final goal for students, working in groups of three, was to build a three-dimensional Crucian cottage using upcycled and sustainable materials to the specifications established by the instructors.

They used Popsicle sticks and pieces of galvanized metal for the exteriors. The resulting models of vernacular/ordinary homes included rooms with furniture and gingerbread details on the exteriors. One building included coconut trees with genip seeds as the fruit and another featured a hurricane-impacted building surrounded by “caution” tape.

The students, in groups of three, worked on building a house to scale with furnishings, wall art and landscaping. (Source photo by Susan Ellis)

Some of the core skills the students learned included reading an architectural ruler, understanding scale, drafting 101, LiDar scanning 101 and navigation. (According to IBM, LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a remote sensing technology that uses laser beams to measure precise distances and movement in an environment.)

They also learned bushcraft and foraging. They had classes on communication, conflict resolution, planning and goal setting, and about the various careers in the building arts.

At the end of Friday’s demonstrations, students were presented with certificates of achievement. Each one accepted the certificates and applause appreciatively and several were excited to take the course again next year.

“It was an honor to work with these young people,” Amanda Sackey, VIAC program director, said, smiling broadly.

Photo Focus: Maintaining Tradition of Handline Fishing at Kids Tournament in Downtown Christiansted

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On the backs of giants like José Alberto Sánchez, a well-known fisherman who moved to St. Croix in the 1960s as a young boy from Fajardo, Puerto Rico, families gathered with children under 15 to participate in the free Handline Tournament in Christiansted. The event, hosted by the Golden Hook Fishing Club and the St. Croix Environmental Association, Saturday was a celebration of both community and tradition. Unlike many of the tournaments “Papa Sánchez” has won over the years catching over 800 pounds of fish, every child walked away a winner — receiving medals, hand lines, and for a few, their very own fishing rod, given away during the raffle, despite the smaller fish caught along the boardwalk, ranging from 0.5 oz. to 3 lbs. The duality of the sea — its love and the sustenance it has provided — dates back to when enslaved Africans used hand lines and traps to feed their families on these very islands. Today, although fishing rods are the most popular method, events like these continue to keep traditions alive in the territory. “The St. Croix Environmental Association was honored to be part of co-hosting this community tradition alongside Golden Hook Fishing Club! The Kids Handline Tournament, while tons of fun, is also about teaching our youth patience, confidence, and what a resilient community looks like,” said Olivia Walton, education coordinator for SEA. “For us at SEA, events like this are all about getting our kids outside and deepening their connection to the ocean that surrounds and sustains us, while sowing the seeds of food sovereignty.”
The children and organizers pose for a photo with their medals at the end of the Handline Tournament. (Photo by Oliva Walton, education coordinator for SEA)
Wyatt (in the blue shirt) caught two fish with help from his mother at the handline tournament Saturday at the Christiansted dock. (Source photo by Shanell Petersen)
Lamin Shaka Reffell, 7, places bait on his hook at the Kids Handline Fishing Tournament in Christiansted. (Source photo by Shanell Petersen)
Samuel Maldonado, 8, was one of the three lucky winners who won a fishing rod at the Kids Handline Tournament hosted by SEA and GHFC. (Source photo by Shanell Petersen)

David Reuben LaMotta Dies at 66

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In profound sorrow the LaMotta Family announces the passing of, David Reuben LaMotta, 66, of St. Thomas, who passed away, Friday, July 4, 2025.
David Reuben LaMotta
We bid farewell to our beloved, brother, uncle, great-uncle, nephew, cousin, brother-in law, classmate and friend. David or Davie as we knew him was a Native Son of St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands, who was born on December 5, 1958,  whose Parents were, Reuben Arturo LaMotta (Father) and Maria Marcelina Encarnación-LaMotta (Mother) who both preceded in death. David grew up in Contant Gardens, St. Thomas, adjacent to the now Ulla Muller Elementary School, until age 1 ½ when the family moved to their new home in Mahogany Estates where he grew up with his parents and siblings, Mark and Lucy. David attended and graduated from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic High School, Class of 1976. While in High School David served as an Alter boy and played on the High School Jaguars football team.   After graduation , David  joined and served in the United States Army where he served two terms, from 1976 to 1982. David, an Honorable Veteran was Honorably discharged with the rank as an SP4 and was awarded several medals. David then attended and studied at The University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas Campus, where he graduated from and held two Degrees, one in Business Administration and one in Communications.  He also received a Certificate of completion in Paralegal Law. After UVI,  David worked for a short time in the Security Department at UVI and as a Lifeguard at Magen’s Bay Authority.  He then went on to work at Frenchman’s Reef in the Security Department for 9 ½ years. With health issues that developed with his parents, requiring them needing assistance, David, then assumed care giving and running errands for both of his parents, with whom he lived until their passing.  In his free time, David enjoyed reading books, newspapers playing his guitar and assisting his Father Reuben in packing and unpacking instruments for his father, when his father performed at various hotels and the Nantuckett Clipper Cruise Lines when they were in port at Charlotte Amalie waterfront. David, passed peacefully at home of natural causes, on Friday, July 4.  David’s smile, love for his family and cherished, beautiful memories will be most remembered by all. He was a one of a kind unique Soul and is survived by, his Brother Mark A. LaMotta, his Sister, Lucy J. LaMotta-Krigger, Neice, Kristin M. Krigger, Nephews, Arturo M. LaMotta and André M. LaMotta, Great-Nephew, Aaron R. Krigger,  Brother-in-law, Keith R. Krigger, Sister-in-law, Patrice M. LaMotta, Aunts, Linda Encarnación-Radix, Ana Julia Encarnación-Flores and Maria Salomé Encarnación-Hector, Uncle’s Luis “Bullfoot” Encarnación, Uncle’s-in Law Paul Radix, Luis Flores Sr., and Darwin Hector Sr., Cousins Richard and Steve Biello of Puerto Rico, Ina Armstrong, Marion, Monique, Myrta Motta-Boyd, David “DD” Kenneth “Kim” and Richard “Richie” Motta, of St. Croix, Joan Barbel-Sibilly, Leo Barbel III, Robert “Bobby” John, Glenn, Deborah, Denise “Pinky” Keith “Chico” Sr. and Wesley LaMotta, Barbara “Babsie,” and Gregory LaMotta, Carlos “Carlito,” De LaMotta.  The 1927 Encarnación Familia of Vieques, PR and St. Croix, VI, The Llanos, Felix, Schuster, Christensen and  Jackson Families of St. Croix, VI and The Velasquez and Leguillou Families of Viequez, Puerto Rico and other family and friends too numerous to mention. Special Neighborhood Friends: Efrain “Junie or EJ” Feliciano, Alson “Ezo” Lockhart, Wayne Claxton, Aubrey “Sonny” Haynes, Ronnie Bonelli, Ashley Williams and Jesus “Papo” Latalladi. Funeral Service: Thursday, Aug. 7 at 10 a.m, at Turnbull’s Funeral Home and Crematory, 3815 Crown Bay Ste 10, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, VI  00802 Internment : Thursday, Aug. 7 at 12 p.m., Western Cemetery #3, Veteran’s Drive, Charlotte Amalie, VI  00802 Please send Tribute’s to: tributes.davidlamotta@gmail.com no later than Thursday, July 31.  

Gorcum Jude Trim Dies at 74

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Gorcum Jude Trim, aka “Jude or Trim” of Stoney Ground, passed away on July 15. He was 74 years old. 
Gorcum Jude Trim
He was preceded in death by his mother, Apolina Trim; father, Alfix Trim; sisters, Veronica Lansiquot, Morley Girawhoo; brothers, Loadge Daniel, Daniel Charlery, Venantious Trim. He is survived by his daughters, Brenda Trim, Judy Caruso; stepson, Demavene Poleon; grandchildren, Kaleed Frederick, Christina Caruso, Chase Caruso, Gabrielle Caruso; sister, Cora Straker, Lena Trim; brother, Fidelis Trim; nieces & nephews too numerous to mention; son-in-law, Marc Caruso; sisters-in-law, Mary Trim, Marilyn Trim; special cousin, Lorina Nestor; special nephew, Callistus Charlery; special friends, Dedess, Dasheen, Chico, Abba, Ada, Francis, Junior, Tiger; other precious family and friends too numerous to mention. The funeral service will be held on August 8 at James Memorial Chapel. Viewing will begin at 10 am, and the service will be at 11 am. Interment will follow at Kingshill Cemetery.  Professional service entrusted to James Memorial Funeral Home.

Virtue of the Week — Modesty

Virtue of the Week – Modesty Virtue of the Week focuses on building peaceful and caring communities through understanding and fostering the practice of virtues. The Source supports the Virtues Project and will publish one virtue developed by the project each week.   Modesty Modesty is a sense of quiet confidence and self-respect, which allows us to enjoy our accomplishments without inflating our self-importance. We have no need to brag or attract attention. We know we are worthy just as we are. We have reasonable expectations of ourselves. Modesty allows us to accept praise with gratitude. We have no need to raise ourselves above others. We share the glory. We are grateful for the gifts we have and we honor the gifts others have. Quote: “He who speaks without modesty will find it difficult to make his words good.” Confucius The Practice of Moderation I am comfortable being who I am. I have no need to exaggerate my importance. I act with mindfulness and moderation. I accomplish things with balance and harmony. I share credit for success. I am grateful for my accomplishments. Questions for Discussion
  • How are we expecting to show up for our social justice work?
  • What gifts are we accepting in our community?
  • Is there any area in our life where we are overdoing something? Where is it? What would it look like if we released it?
  • How will modesty strengthen our social justice work?
Sign up to receive the Virtue of the Week by email! Visit https://cfvi.net/Virtues-Project, and scroll to the end of the page to fill out the form. Virtue of the Week is provided by the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands (CFVI) in partnership with the VI Source and Virtues Matter. About the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands Since 1990, CFVI has been a catalyst for positive change in the territory through initiatives committed to youth, learning, family support and the environment. With a professional staff and a volunteer Board of Directors composed of community leaders, CFVI is a trusted advocate and supporter of programs that ensure opportunity and sustainability for current and future generations. CFVI is a registered non-profit organization entirely supported by individual donors, grants, trusts, corporate donations and estate planning. For more information, visit cfvi.net. About Virtues Matter Virtues Matter was started by a passionate wife-husband team of social entrepreneurs seeking to positively uplift as many lives as possible. We aim to inspire and empower, to build capacity, strengthen relationships, and help everyone lead lives of passion and purpose. Virtues Matter believes in a world where people are committed to kindness and respect, strive to be their best, and live with hope, courage, and in unity. We built the Virtues Cards mobile app, an interactive personal and team development tool, to help people identify and develop key virtues skills. We also offer dynamic workshops, online training, and customized programs to help people cultivate these positive qualities of character. To learn more, visit virtuesmatter.com. To learn more about the Virtues Project, visit virtuesproject.com.

WAPA Board Approves Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and Key Fuel Initiatives

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Governing Board met today and approved several initiatives aimed at reducing fuel costs, strengthening infrastructure, and improving service delivery across the territory. The meeting was also marked by a renewed call for accountability from the Board’s newly elected Chairman, Maurice K. Muia. Chairman Muia began the meeting by emphasizing the urgent need to tackle high fuel costs, address long-standing financial challenges, and reignite hope in the Authority. “We must get our fuel strategy right—fuel is the biggest burden on our customers,” said Muia. “I want this Board to be a conduit that reinstates faith in the Authority, its people, and our services. Join me in holding us accountable and supporting us on the right path forward,” Muia added. The meeting resulted in the approval of several key projects that support WAPA’s long-term goal of delivering reliable, cost-effective service to customers. Among them was a new contract with Empire Gas Company, Inc., for the supply of HD-5 grade Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) to WAPA’s Randolph Harley and Richmond power plants. The contract offers improved pricing and includes an option for the vendor to construct and maintain a dedicated LPG fuel station at no capital cost to WAPA. Karl Knight, CEO and Executive Director of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority, stated, “Empire Gas offers a reliable, cost-effective supply of LPG. It represents a big step forward in our move toward reducing our operational expenses and achieving financial stability.” To support the integration of the new Wartsila generators at the Randolph Harley Power Plant, the Board also approved a no-cost time extension for Exsol Group to complete the final phase of the LPG terminal infrastructure. This permanent solution will ensure a dedicated and redundant fuel supply for the new units. In an effort to enhance meter and billing accuracy, the Board approved additional work on the Authority’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project. The approvals will enable the installation of up to 150 new composite poles and related electrical equipment throughout St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, Water Island, and Hassel Island. CEO Knight emphasized, “We’re entering AMI 2.0 with better tools, better data, and lessons learned. This infrastructure will improve meter reading accuracy, reduce estimated billing, and empower customers to track their consumption in real time.” The meeting also advanced plans to improve substation reliability, with approval granted for a cost increase and time extension on the Donald Francois Substation switchgear replacement project. This FEMA-funded project is critical to restoring reliability in one of the Authority’s most heavily burdened substations, which sustained major damage during the 2017 hurricanes. The switch from aging air-insulated switchgear to modern gas-insulated units will help prevent future outages and ensure a more stable power supply for customers in the East End of St. Thomas. As part of WAPA’s broader fiscal planning, the Board unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Electric and Water Budgets. The budgets reflect a renewed focus on financial stability and operational improvements, with increased revenues anticipated from more accurate meter readings and higher system efficiency. These resources will support critical maintenance of legacy units and allow for timely payments to vendors. The budget includes funding for key positions to include dedicated tree trimming crews and technical staff. Additionally, the Board officially welcomed Collin Brown as the new Director of Transmission & Distribution. A seasoned electrical engineer with prior experience at the St. Kitts Electricity Company Limited (SKELEC), Brown expressed his commitment to WAPA’s mission and his readiness to take on the challenges ahead. “I extend assurance to the board, CEO, and team. My commitment in joining WAPA is sincere, and I look forward to contributing to the team,” he said. Board members acknowledged the demands of the role and pledged their support to ensure the department’s success in delivering safe and reliable service. While the cost of fuel is trending downward, CEO Knight reminded the Board and the public that WAPA must still contend with deferred maintenance and a $7.4 million balance in outstanding payments to local vendors. “Before we can celebrate savings, we need to address the full financial picture,” he said. “WAPA does not make a profit, and that’s often overlooked in public discourse. We must ensure continuity of service for our community.” The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.

St. Croix Man Arrested on Domestic Violence Charges Following Early Morning Incident

A St. Croix man is facing domestic violence charges after a woman reported that he strangled her twice during an argument, according to the Virgin Islands Police Department.

Around 4:41 a.m. Saturday, an adult female entered the Ancilmo D. Marshall Command Police Station and requested help regarding an incident involving Travis Everett. A detective with the Domestic Violence Unit conducted the investigation, the police report stated.

The woman told police that she and Everett had a verbal dispute, during which Everett allegedly strangled her and restricted her airway on two separate occasions, the report stated.

Travis Everett, 45, was arrested later that day and charged with second-degree assault, classified as an act of domestic violence. According to the VIPD, Everett was booked without bail and remanded to the John Bell Correctional Facility, the report stated.

He is scheduled for an advice of rights hearing Monday at 9 a.m. in Superior Court, it said.

“Think Before You Drink,” USVI Cracks Down on DUI to Keep Roads Safe

The Virgin Islands Police Department, in collaboration with the Virgin Islands Office of Highway Safety (VIOHS), is launching the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” high-visibility enforcement campaign as part of a national effort to reduce impaired driving and improve road safety, reported the VIPD.

The campaign, which runs from July 27 through September, aligned with Title 20, Section 493 of the Virgin Islands Code, and aims to raise awareness, increase enforcement, and reduce impaired driving incidents, according to a news release.

Impaired driving is more than just a statistic—it’s a real and personal threat that impacts every one of us. Whether it’s a family member, friend, or neighbor, the consequences can be life-altering in a single moment. With the influx of tourists, lively social gatherings, the risk of impaired driving increases. The stakes are too high to ignore. This campaign is more than just enforcement; it’s about protecting the community, safeguarding the places we call home, looking out for the people we love, while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all who visit our islands. The message is clear and unwavering: Impaired Driving Will Not Be Tolerated, the release stated.

The VIPD will conduct roadside sobriety checkpoints, saturation patrols, and increased surveillance across the territory. The goal is straightforward—to ensure that everyone gets home safely. Officers will be watching for signs of impairment, such as erratic driving, speeding, or swerving, and addressing other traffic violations that compromise safety. Drivers suspected of DUI will be stopped, tested, and, if necessary, arrested, according to the release.

“Impaired driving doesn’t just endanger the driver and his or her passengers, it puts everyone on the road at risk,” said Daphne O’Neal, VIOHS director. “If you plan to drink or use intoxicating substances, make sure to have a safe way home—whether it’s a designated driver or alternate transportation. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility.”

Let’s work together to keep our roads safe. Celebrate Responsibly, and always remember: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over. Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving; If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.

For more information about the campaign, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. To request a traffic safety presentation or learn more about impaired driving prevention, contact the VIOHS through O’Neal at daphne.oneal@vipd.vi.gov or the Impaired Driving Program Manager, K’ Tonya Petrus at k’tonya.petrus@vi.gov. People may also contact the office via telephone at (340) 772-3025.