Police Offer $50K For Prison Escapees
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of two men who escaped from His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, last October. Jose Almestica and John Burgos are considered armed and dangerous; the public is urged not to approach them and to report tips to the RVIPF or Crime Stoppers.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of two men who escaped from His Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut last October. The reward targets Jose Almestica and John Burgos, both reported residents of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI).
Police say the pair remain at large and should be considered armed and dangerous. At the time of the escape, Almestica was serving a six-year sentence for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. In October 2025 a nine-member jury found him guilty on multiple counts, including four counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, one count of Possession of a Prohibited Firearm, three counts of Unlawful Possession of Explosives and two counts of Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply.
He was awaiting sentencing for those convictions and is also awaiting trial over the 2021 murder of Deverson Williams at Fish Bay, Tortola. The RVIPF additionally says Almestica is wanted by USVI authorities on serious charges, including First-degree Murder, Second-degree Murder and Assault.
Burgos was being held on remand at Balsam Ghut on charges related to firearms, ammunition and drug possession. He is also wanted by USVI police for questioning in connection with a 2023 murder investigation, the RVIPF said. Authorities have strongly warned the public not to approach either man.
Anyone with information on their whereabouts is asked to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9512 or provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 284-800-8477 from overseas. The RVIPF said: “The safety of our communities remains a top priority.
As long as these fugitives remain at large, there is an ongoing risk to public safety. Even the smallest piece of information could prove critical in locating and apprehending these individuals.” For BVI residents, the escape and ongoing manhunt are a reminder of cross-jurisdictional risks: both men have ties to the USVI and are the subject of investigations there, which complicates efforts and increases the urgency for local tips.
Residents may notice increased police activity or targeted patrols while searches continue. Anyone who believes they have seen either man should call the RVIPF or Crime Stoppers immediately and avoid attempting to make contact. The reward remains in place as police intensify efforts to bring the fugitives back into custody and to protect community safety.
Primary source: BVI News