Boat Captain Charged After Alleged Assault
A 31-year-old Argentine charter boat captain has been charged with assault following a physical altercation aboard his vessel after a crew member alleged they were sexually assaulted. Police have arrested the captain and say investigators are continuing to examine the sexual-assault allegation.
A 31-year-old charter boat captain has been charged with assault after an incident onboard his vessel that followed allegations of sexual assault, BVI News reported. According to reports, the suspect — a national of Argentina — was taken into custody after another boat captain reported the matter.
The two captains and their crews had spent time together at a bar before being invited aboard the suspect’s vessel. While socialising and drinking on board, a crew member employed by one of the other vessels complained that they had been sexually assaulted by the suspect. It remains unclear whether the crew member who made the allegation is male or female.
Sources say the crew member’s captain confronted the suspect, who denied the allegation and became defensive when questioned further. The confrontation escalated into a physical tussle between the two men and others on board had to intervene. The captain who confronted the suspect reportedly sustained injuries; it is not known whether he sought medical treatment.
Police were called to the scene and arrested the suspect, who has been charged with assault in relation to the physical altercation. Investigators are continuing to examine the separate rape allegation made by the crew member. Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect has been released on bail or when he is scheduled to appear in magistrate's court.
The case highlights concerns around safety and conduct in the Territory’s maritime and charter sectors, which employ many residents and play an important role in the BVI economy and tourism. Local boat crews often work closely and socialise after shifts; incidents of alleged sexual violence or on‑board confrontations can have serious legal and workplace consequences.
Police in the BVI routinely investigate reports of sexual assault and related offences, and victims and witnesses are encouraged to report incidents so they can be properly examined. As this matter remains under investigation, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
BVI News provided initial reporting and authorities have not released further details.
Primary source: BVI News