Trio Charged Over Alleged Spearfishing
Three men from the same family have been charged after Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) Marine Unit officers say they found spear guns and fish showing signs of spearfishing during a March 20 patrol. The men were granted bail and are due in Magistrate’s Court on May 7, 2026.
Three men from the same family have been charged with using a prohibited method of fishing after officers from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) Marine Unit say they discovered spear guns and fish showing signs consistent with spearfishing during a routine patrol on March 20, 2026.
The occupants of the vessel were identified as Albert Stoutt, 69, and Andrew Stoutt, 32, both of Little Apple Bay, and Zacchari Stoutt, 35, of Soper’s Hole. The men were detained at sea, taken to the Virgin Islands Law Enforcement Marine Base for further investigation, and the vessel was processed, police said.
Following enquiries, the men were formally charged with two counts of using a prohibited method of fishing under the Fisheries Act. Each was granted bail in the sum of $1,500 and is scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on May 7, 2026. Officers also seized a quantity of marine life during the operation.
The RVIPF said the seized items were turned over to the relevant authorities for appropriate handling. No further details on the species or disposition of the catch were released. The RVIPF cautioned the public that certain fishing practices are prohibited within BVI waters and urged residents to familiarise themselves with local fisheries regulations.
Spear or snorkel-fishing in certain areas, using specific gear, or targeting protected species can damage coral reefs, reduce fish stocks and harm livelihoods tied to tourism and sustainable fisheries. “Enforcement efforts will continue as part of ongoing measures to protect marine resources,” the police statement added, emphasising that the Marine Unit carries out routine patrols to safeguard territorial waters.
Authorities encouraged members of the public to report illegal fishing or other marine offences. Information can be provided directly to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit or anonymously through Crime Stoppers. For BVI residents, the case is a reminder of the importance of following fisheries laws that protect the territory’s marine environment and the economic activities that depend on it.
Anyone unsure about permitted methods or local restrictions should consult the Fisheries Department or the relevant legislation before heading out on the water.
Primary source: BVI News