Investigation Underway Regarding Robbery at Collector's Hill Service Station

Tuesday, October 11,2022

An investigation has been launched following a robbery at the Collector’s Hill Esso Service Station, on South Road, Devonshire. The incident occurred around 10:00 pm on Monday, 10th October 2022. Information is, the suspect rode into the parking lot on a dark coloured motorcycle, approached a staff member who was standing behind the cashier counter and demanded money. The staff member noticed that the suspect placed their hands in the waist region as if reaching for something. However, no weapon was seen and no one was injured. The suspect escaped with a quantity of cash and rode off on the motor bike he arrived on, headed in a westerly direction on South Road. The suspect described as slim built, 6’1” tall and was wearing black clothing, black bubble rain jacket, black helmet, a mask and grey gloves. Anyone with information on this incident, is asked to contact Acting Detective Sergeant, Whitney Wilkinson on 717-2496 or via email – wwilkinson@bps.bm. Alternatively you may call the police reporting number, 211, the main police number, 295-0011 or, share the information with a police officer you’re familiar with.

Motorcyclist Admitted Into ICU After Collision With Car Sunday Evening

Wednesday, October 05,2022

Around 7:40pm Sunday, 2nd October 2022, a reported collision involving a car and a motorcycle occurred at the junction of Montpelier Road and Happy Valley Road in Devonshire. It appears that a motorcyclist was travelling north along Montpelier Road and a car was being driven in the opposite direction along Montpelier Road when the car driver, said to be a 64-year-old Devonshire man, attempted to turn right on to Happy Valley Road. As a result the vehicles collided at the junction and the rider, said to be a 38-year-old Sandys parish man, was seriously injured. He was rushed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance and admitted into the Intensive Care Unit. The car driver was not hurt. However his front seat passenger, said to be a 60-year-old Devonshire woman, apparently sustained cuts to her face. Traffic was diverted for approximately three hours while the scene was processed. Inquiries continue and any witnesses are encouraged to call 211 or e-mail 211@bps.bm as soon as possible.

Third Quarter 2022 Road Traffic Collision Figures

Monday, October 03,2022

Traffic collisions in the 3rd quarter of 2022 were significantly reduced, when compared with 3rd quarter figures for the three years prior. Between July and September of this year, there were 264 road traffic collisions. For the corresponding three months of 2021, there were 352 such incidents. In 2020 the third quarter figure stood at 315 and in 2019, 384. Robert Cardwell – Chief Inspector, Tactical Support Division, said: “This represents a marked reduction in road traffic collisions. Reflecting on 2nd quarter collision numbers, for 2022 they edged up slightly over 2021.  However, for the first quarter of 2022, the number was lower than the same period in 2021 as was the 4th quarter of 2021, when compared with the years 2020 and 2019.” The Chief Inspector added: “We attribute collision reductions to the hard work of our officers in progressing Operation Vega.  That notwithstanding, we still find speeding offences to be the most prominent offence reported.  We also attribute many of these collisions to speed.  We continue to encourage Bermuda to slow down on the roads. Unfortunately, Impaired driving also remains prevalent on our roads. In the 1st quarter of 2022, twenty-eight drivers were arrested for impaired.   In the 2nd quarter fifty-one drivers were arrested and in the 3rd quarter 70.  That is 149 impaired drivers arrested in 2022 so far.” When impaired your, ability to accurately perceive what is going on around you is severely hindered, your reaction time slows down, your mental capacity is affected, your coordination is thrown off and motor skills become diminished thus increasing your chances of being involved in a collision. Mr Cardwell added: “Drivers should also consider that operating a vehicle whilst impaired, threatens not only their lives but also to the lives of any passengers in their vehicle. Not to mention, the lives of other road users.” Appearing before the courts, anyone charged with impaired driving can expect a fine of one thousand dollars as well as to be banned from operating a vehicle for 18 months. In order to help prevent road traffic collisions, the public is reminded: 1.       Do not operate a vehicle whilst impaired by alcohol or drugs. 2.       Avoid using mobile devices when operating a vehicle. 3.       When operating a vehicle, look well ahead for hazards, brake lights and turn signals. 4.       Always maintain sufficient distance between you and the vehicle in front so that you have   enough room to stop safely. 5.       Observe the speed limit. 6.       Obey road traffic signs. 7.       Ensure your vehicle is in good working order.

Criminal Records / Vetting Office Change of Hours Friday, 30th September

Wednesday, September 28,2022

Please be advised that there's a minor shift in opening hours for our Criminal Records / Vetting Office located at the Dame Lois Browne-Evans Building, Court Street, Hamilton. On Friday, September 30th, 2022, opening hours will be 9:00am-9:45am and 12:45pm – 4:00pm. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience and assure the public that normal opening hours for this office will resume on Monday, October 3rd, 2022.

Sudden Death in St. David's

Wednesday, September 28,2022

Around 8:30 pm on Tuesday, September 27th 2022, police received reports of an unresponsive male in a punt at the St. David’s Variety wharf. Officers attended the scene and administered CPR until the arrival of EMTs who took over. There has so far, been no indication of foul play or, suspicious circumstances involved. However, the investigation into this matter is ongoing. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call the police reporting number 211 or, the main police line, 295-0011.

Operation Kagera: Man Arrested, Quantity of Suspected Drugs Seized

Thursday, September 22,2022

On Tuesday, September, 20th, police officers executed a search warrant in support of Operation Kagera. The operation was conducted by officers of the Tactical Operations Division. A quantity of suspected cocaine, heroin and fentanyl, along with drug paraphernalia were seized. A male suspect was arrested on suspicion of possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, as well as other offences in connection with this ongoing operation. Inspector Shakisha Minors of the Tactical Unit stated, “The use of these drugs can have serious effects including, permanent physical health damage, addiction and possible overdose death." Anyone with information on any individual engaged in the sale of these serious harmful drugs or, any illicit items, is strongly encouraged to contact the Bermuda Police Service on 295-0011, the non-emergency contact centre on 211 or the confidential Crime Stoppers number 800-8477.

Motorcyclist Chases Car Driver From Devonshire to City of Hamilton: Witnesses Sought

Tuesday, September 20,2022

Police are investigating an incident which occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. on Monday, 19th September, 2022, on South Road near Devonshire Bay. The incident involved a single rider on a motorcycle pursuing a silver coloured motorcar, east on South Road towards Collectors Hill then back west on South Road to Trimmingham Hill. The pursuit continued over Trimmingham Hill on to East Broadway then up Spurling Hill to Reid Street and on to Court Street. It ended near the junction of Parliament and Church Streets when the cycle rode away. The cycle is described as a dark step though motorcycle. The rider was a black male wearing a face mask/bandana with a skull print, a dark coloured helmet and a black and white Tee-shirt. Police are particularly interested in speaking with a taxi operator who was driving his taxi in the area of Spurling Hill, and may have had to take evasive action as a result of this incident. Anyone who may have witnessed this incident or has any information on it, is asked to call 211 or the Duty Sergeant at the Hamilton Police Station at 295-0011.

Witness Appeal After Two Injured During Altercation at Warwick Camp

Sunday, September 18,2022

Shortly before 11:00 a.m. today, Sunday, September 18th, 2022, police received a number of reports of an altercation involving several individuals during a private event at the Royal Bermuda Regiment Headquarters, Warwick Camp, South Road, Warwick. A 35-year-old male sustained non-life-threatening stab wounds to the leg during the incident. A 62-year-old female was left with swelling to her head as well as bruising to her arms and legs. Both victims were attended to by EMTs at the scene and transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for further treatment. An investigation into this matter has now commenced and anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Sergeant Seymour Foote on 717-2282. You may also call 211, the main police number, 295-0011 or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477. Alternatively, we urge you to provide the information to a police officer with whom you are familiar. Investigators are particularly interested in speaking with anyone who may have recorded video of the incident.

Man Hospitalised With Serious Head Injury Identified, Inquiries Ongoing

Saturday, September 17,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now identify the man hospitalised with a potentially life threatening head injury as 62-year-old Randall Walker. At last check, Mr. Walker remained in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Around 1pm Thursday, 15th September 2022, a member of the public reported finding the 62-year-old lying on the ground with a head wound outside a Pembroke Park Lane residence. He had apparently fallen from a wall at the Pembroke property. Inquiries continue regarding the circumstances of this incident and members of the public with any information – in particular, those with knowledge of Mr. Walker’s whereabouts in the hours prior to 1pm Thursday – are once again urged to come forward. Please contact Detective Inspector Clifford Roberts on 717-0590, 247-1744, e-mail croberts2@bps.bm or call 211. Any information received by the BPS will be treated in the strictest of confidence. Alternatively, tips can be provided to the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477.

BPS Representative to Attend Her Majesty’s State Funeral

Friday, September 16,2022

The Bermuda Police Service, (BPS), will be represented at the State Funeral for Her Majesty the Queen. Inspector Derrick Golding will take part in ceremonial duties during the State Funeral. Acting Deputy Commissioner Martin Weekes explained: “It all came about after an invitation was received from Sir Mark Rowley, Commissioner of The Metropolitan Police in London, for all British Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies to each send a representative officer to the UK to take part in Ceremonial Duties. Inspector Golding was selected by the BPS’ Senior Leadership Team to represent Bermuda at this prestigious occasion. Inspector Golding, recently promoted to the rank of Inspector was Guard Commander at the Proclamation Ceremony Parade on Front Street to mark the Ascension of King Charles III this past weekend.” Inspector Golding is a former BPS Drill Sergeant and was the Baton of Honour recipient on his Recruit Foundation Course. He has represented the BPS on numerous parades and other Ceremonial functions since joining the Service as a Cadet in 2004.

Inquiries Underway Regarding Reported Medical Emergency [Updated]

Friday, September 16,2022

Approximately 1pm Thursday 15th September 2022, police and fellow first responders attended a reported medical emergency involving a person found outside a Pembroke Park Lane residence. On arrival at the Pembroke property the individual in question, understood to be a 62-year-old Devonshire man, was located. He had apparently fallen from a wall and sustained a head wound. EMTs rendered first aid on site before transporting him to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance, where he continues to be treated for a potentially life threatening head injury. Inquiries are underway regarding the circumstances of this reported medical emergency and members of the public with any information are urged to come forward. Please contact Detective Inspector Clifford Roberts on 717-0590, 247-1744, e-mail croberts2@bps.bm or call 211. Alternatively, tips can be provided to the confidential Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477. The public’s assistance is greatly appreciated and any information received will be treated in the strictest of confidence. Update: Saturday, 17th September - The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now identify the man hospitalised with a potentially life threatening head injury as 62-year-old Randall Walker. At last check, Mr. Walker remained in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Around 1pm Thursday, 15th September 2022, a member of the public reported finding the 62-year-old lying on the ground with a head wound outside a Pembroke Park Lane residence. He had apparently fallen from a wall at the Pembroke property. Inquiries continue regarding the circumstances of this incident and members of the public with any information – in particular, those with knowledge of Mr. Walker’s whereabouts in the hours prior to 1pm Thursday – are once again urged to come forward. Please contact Detective Inspector Clifford Roberts on 717-0590, 247-1744, e-mail croberts2@bps.bm or call 211. Any information received by the BPS will be treated in the strictest of confidence. Alternatively, tips can be provided to the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline at 800-8477.

Acting Superintendent Laws Participates in West Midlands Police 2022 Operation Unity Observer Programme

Thursday, September 15,2022

As part of ongoing efforts to ensure our officers receive high level training in preparation for leadership roles and providing overall better policing, Acting Superintendent Jerome Laws recently participated in the “West Midlands Police 2022 Operation Unity Observer Programme.” The programme provided an opportunity for police and security partners to gain first hand insight into the planning and delivery of a major operation. The Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games took place in the West Midlands between Thursday 28th July until Monday 8th August. The region, with the help of West Midlands Police and colleagues from all over the United Kingdom, hosted more than 6,000 athletes from across 73 Commonwealth nations and territories. The observer programme provided delegates with the opportunity to see first-hand, the final security operation preparations in a controlled environment. Delegates visited key logistical sites and heard invaluable first hand insights into specific areas of planning and delivery of the Games. With the opportunity to visit both competition and non-competition venues, integral operational and logistics hubs and hear direct from the team, delegates learnt about the approach to the planning operation, how the plans developed and the lessons learnt along the way.  The comprehensive programme covered work streams such as: ·         Operations, Support, Command and Control ·         Resourcing ·         Transport & Logistics ·         Engagement ·         Business Support ·         Business Continuity ·         Testing & Exercise Testing

17-Year-Old Rider in ICU After Collision Near Devonshire Post Office

Thursday, September 15,2022

Around 4pm Wednesday, 14th September 2022, a serious two vehicle collision involving a SUV and a motorcycle occurred at the junction of Middle Road and Orange Valley Road in Devonshire, near Devonshire Post Office. It now appears that the driver of the SUV was exiting Orange Valley Road to head west along Middle Road when the motorcyclist, who was travelling east along Middle Road behind a taxi, attempted to overtake the taxi. As a result, the SUV and motorcycle collided. The SUV then struck a wall and went over an embankment. The rider involved, said to be a 17-year-old male from Pembroke, was rushed to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment of head injuries. At last check he had been admitted into the Intensive Care Unit. The SUV driver, said to be a 57-year-old Paget woman, was not hurt. Both vehicles were damaged and traffic in the area was diverted for approximately two hours while the scene was processed. Inquiries continue and any witnesses that have not already come forward are asked to contact Constable Bruce Sandham on 211, or e-mail bsandham@bps.bm, as soon as possible.

Operation Vega: Speeding, Ignoring Traffic Signs Top Recent Road Offences

Tuesday, September 13,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) continues to enforce Operation Vega, in order to help make our roads safer. It is concerning to note that 19 motorists were arrested for impaired driving from 8th August until 12th September 2022, despite that number being a slight reduction from the last reporting period (11th July until 8th August 2022), when 22 motorists were arrested for impaired driving. During this period (8th August until 12th September), 716 tickets were issued for various traffic offences – an increase of 76 from the previous period’s total of 640. Motorists receiving tickets for speeding and ignoring traffic signs also increased from the previous period. The breakdown of the most recent ticketed traffic offences is below. The change compared to the previous period is provided in brackets. Speeding                                 368 (+75) highest ticketed speed was 94 kph.   Disobeying a traffic sign       113 (+35)                  Unlicensed vehicle                  75 (+1)                   No third party insurance        59 (-2)            No driver’s licence                   46 (-12)       Helmet                                       15 (-7)                Manner of driving                    12 (-9) Failure to stop                          11 (+11) Defective vehicle                       7 (+6) Seatbelt                                       4 (-17)                         Disqualified driver                     3 (-6)                      Cell phone                                   2 (0) Fraudulent documents              1 (+1) Failure to give name/address  0  (0) In addition, 98 warnings were recorded in the most recent statistics, up from 91 during the last reporting period. Since inception (6th July 2021), Operation Vega has logged a total of 7,388 traffic tickets for various road offences. Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell of the BPS Tactical Operations Division stated, “This last period of Operation Vega enforcement 8th August to 12th September represented another good period of traffic enforcement. The numbers in this period compared to the last period of measurement (11th July to 8th August) were up in most categories. We remain concerned around the number of unlicensed and uninsured vehicles on the roads as well as the number of people driving without a valid driver’s licence. Speeding offenders continue to dominate the moving violation ticket numbers with speeds in this period seen between 57kph and 94kph. 94kph is almost triple the lawful speed limit. Many of the traffic collisions we are seeing on the roads are attributable to speed and inattention – at times combined. Collision reduction is the goal of Operation Vega. Impaired driving arrests on the roads even in light of Road Side Sobriety testing, which is unfortunately sporadic due to the legislation framework we have to work within, is also a concern. We continue to caution against driving whilst impaired, whether by alcohol or drug, due to the inherent dangers and risk of injury that can be caused not only to yourself, but to someone else. Any individual driving whilst intoxicated suffers from slowed down reflexes and a temporarily lowered mental acuity, which compromises the ability to control their vehicle. “Buzzed” driving is still drunk driving and is dangerous. We are very pleased with the traction Operation Vega has had, thanks to the hard work of all of the men and women of the Bermuda Police Service, specifically the Operational Units. Our ultimate goal is to make Bermuda safer. This is what we are all working towards – and includes ongoing vigilance regarding road safety. Collision numbers are still much higher than we would like to see them and the continued loss of life on the roads is a real concern. We continue to attend collisions that have resulted in serious injury, including head trauma and the loss of a limb. Driving or riding safely should be everyone’s top priority. The practicing of safe driving basics every time you are on the road is every drivers/riders responsibility. The use of distracting devices such as a cellular phone, which is unlawful, is heavily frowned upon by other motorists sharing the road with you, as a result of the clear distraction it causes while driving. The speed limit is 35kph and is reduced in some built up areas, such as where pedestrian traffic is high, or in school zones. Driving above the speed limit, or without care, caution and consideration for your surroundings, puts you and others at risk of injury or worse. Making Bermuda safer is not just a job for the police service. This is something we can all contribute to and it can be achieved on the roads by slowing down as a start. We have been overwhelmed by the public support for Operation Vega and it is clear that calming the roads is the want of most.”

Two Arrested, Cash & Suspected Controlled Drug Seized After Vehicle Stop

Monday, September 12,2022

Around 1:40am Monday, 12th September 2022 police officers on mobile patrol had cause to stop a car in the Tribe Road Number 2 Warwick area, in the vicinity of Ord Road. The officers saw two occupants in the vehicle and based on their observations, searched them under the Misuse of Drugs Act. As a result, a quantity of suspected controlled drug, described as a white rock like substance and a quantity of cash, were seized. Both occupants, a 64-year-old local man and a 58-year-old local woman, were then arrested in connection with this matter and later released on police bail, pending further inquiries. A court appearance is anticipated in due course.

Murder Victim Identified as 16-Year-Old Kanye Ford, Suspect in Custody

Monday, September 12,2022

The Bermuda Police Service, (BPS) can confirm the identity of the victim in that fatal stabbing incident which occurred in the car park of Horseshoe Bay beach, shortly after 11:00 p.m. on Friday September 9th, 2022, as 16-year-old Kanye Ford. Mr. Ford was among a group of individuals gathered at the car park for a private social event when he became involved in an altercation with several other males. Mr. Ford sustained stab wounds to the chest and was attended to at the scene by police officers and EMTs. He was transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for further treatment. Sadly, he subsequently succumbed to his injuries. A second male who was also injured during the altercation, was attended to at hospital, for a non-life-threatening injury to his arm and discharged. A 19-year-old male has been arrested in connection with this, the eighth murder for the year and is assisting police with the ongoing investigation into this matter. Detective Inspector Jason Smith of the Serious Crime Unit said, “There were approximately thirty people in attendance at the event at Horseshoe Bay car park, when this tragic event occurred. While our investigation is being progressed based on information received, we are once again appealing for anyone who was present or, who may have any information on what transpired to please get in contact with us. Someone had to have witnessed what happened and we urge you to come forward and help bring closure to the family of Mr. Ford and those responsible to justice.” Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact the lead investigator Detective Constable Odessa Philip on 717-2193, via e-mail, ophilip@bps.bm or, Detective Inspector Smith on 717-0864 or, via email, jsmith2@bps.bm. Of course you may also call 211, the main police number 295-0011, Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 or, provide the information to a police officer with whom you are familiar.

Suspect Arrested, Cash & Suspected Controlled Drug Seized

Wednesday, September 07,2022

On Wednesday, 31st August, 2022, The Bermuda Police Service Drugs Unit, executed a search warrant at a Hamilton Parish residence where several packages containing the suspected Controlled Drug Cocaine, and cash in excess of $16,000.00 BDA, were seized. The Bermuda Police Service can confirm that a member of HM Customs Bermuda, has been arrested in relation to this matter, as well as other offenses stemming from a police operation conducted on 4th August, 2022. Acting Detective Superintendent Sherwin Joseph of the Specialists Investigations Department stated: “Our investigations into these matters are ongoing and no further information will be provided at this time”. The BPS Drugs Unit will continue investigations.

Labour Day Holiday Policing

Wednesday, September 07,2022

Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Martin Weekes - "The Bermuda Police Service would like to take this opportunity to thank the community for their cooperation in ensuring there were no major policing incidents during the recent Labour Day holiday weekend. Whilst a number of reports were made to police, they were generally in connection with minor incidents such as loud music complaints, which were quickly resolved using a Community Policing approach. Arrests however were made in a number of cases resulting in a total of 39 arrests made over the long weekend. Sadly, despite it being publicised that Roadside Sobriety Testing checkpoints would be deployed throughout the weekend, eight individuals were arrested whilst driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. One of those arrests involved an individual who upon taking the breathalyser test, recorded a reading of 197 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood. That is more than twice the legal limit of 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood. Thankfully, our policing efforts resulted in these individuals being taken off the road, preventing any tragedies from occurring. However, the BPS reminds and encourages the public to take responsibility for their behaviour and simply do not operate any kind of vehicle if you have been drinking or may have taken any mind altering drugs, legal or otherwise. Also of concern is the fact that close to ninety individuals were issued speeding tickets, with the worst offender being clocked at 96 kilometres per hour. Bearing in mind, the speed limit is 35 kilometres per hour. There were two people arrested for possession of bladed articles – knives. In one instance, police received a report of an individual with a knife at an establishment on Front Street in the City of Hamilton. Officers went to the location and approached an individual fitting the description of the suspect. A knife was recovered from him and he was arrested and taken to the Hamilton Police Station where he was detained. In the second incident an individual who had cause to attend Hamilton Police Station was arrested and upon being searched and found to be in possession of a knife. Both individuals have since been released on police bail pending further investigations. Again I wish to thank the public for their cooperation and understanding when delayed on the roads due to the requirements of Roadside Sobriety Testing Checkpoints as well as those set up where required to prevent acts of violence and the carrying of weapons."

Road Sobriety Checkpoints in Effect 2nd Through 6th September 2022

Friday, September 02,2022

This Labour Day holiday weekend, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) will be conducting road sobriety checkpoints in 7 parishes (Hamilton parish, Smith’s parish, Devonshire, Pembroke, Paget, Warwick & Southampton) starting this evening, Friday 2nd September through Tuesday 6th September 2022. Officers from the Community Policing Division, Tactical Operations and Roads Policing Unit will operate the checkpoints, which are in addition to general BPS patrol officers enforcing Operation Vega. Please plan ahead and do your part by not driving or riding impaired. If you are intending to go out and socialise, make sure you have arranged for a designated driver, taxi or another responsible transportation service to get you to your destination safely.

Public Advisory: Swing Bridge, St. George’s [Updated]

Tuesday, August 30,2022

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) is advising the public – motorists in particular – to expect delays at the Swing Bridge in St. George’s and if possible, to avoid using it, until further notice. Apparently some electrical wires have come down across the bridge, causing normal traffic flow along the span to be affected. The cause of the downed wires is not known. It is unclear at this time if any of the wires involved are live. BELCO has been notified and are en route. Police officers are currently on scene assisting with traffic management. The BPS appreciates the patience and understanding of the motoring public and area residents while this situation is addressed. Our main concern is safety. A further update is anticipated in due course. Update: The Bermuda Police Service can now confirm that normal traffic flow has resumed across the Swing Bridge in St. George’s. We are grateful for the assistance of BELCO in resolving this issue, as well as the patience of the motoring public and area residents.