Firearm Recovered

Sunday, January 28,2024

A traffic stop in St. George’s on Saturday, January 27, 2024, has led to the recovery of a firearm. Police were conducting road traffic checks on Mullet Bay Road St. George’s on the above date, when shortly before 4:30 p.m., they stopped a motorcar driven by a 22-year-old male. Officers conducted a search of his person and a quantity of controlled drugs was found in his possession. He was arrested and escorted to Hamilton Police Station where he was processed and detained. A warrant was subsequently executed at the subject’s residence. During a search at that location, a firearm was recovered and seized. Officers also recovered and seized a large quantity of controlled drugs along with an amount of cash. An investigation into this matter is underway and no further information will be provided at this time.

Dockyard Incident

Thursday, January 25,2024

Shortly after 2pm on Thursday 25th January, 2024, police responded to a report of a possible firearms incident at a Dockyard residence. Information suggests that an unknown male wearing dark clothing entered a private residence and brandished what was believed to be a firearm. The suspect then left the residence and is believed to have departed the area on awaiting motorcycle in the company of another male. Police began a search of the Somerset area and were alerted to a motorcycle believed linked to the incident, at a location on the Bob’s Valley Road. An investigation into the matter has commenced and we are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or anyone who may have seen two males dressed in dark clothing, on a motorcycle acting suspiciously in the Dockyard or Bob’s Valley area, to contact police on 211.

BPS Response to Osagi Bascome Murder Trial Not Guilty Verdict

Tuesday, January 23,2024

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns of the Serious Crime Unit - "It is crucial to acknowledge that the investigation into the tragic death of Mr. Bascome has been a meticulous and thorough process. Detectives were not only professional, but also diligent with their investigation into this matter and ensured that no stone was left unturned in the pursuit of justice. Despite the outcome of the trial, we express our appreciation to and commend the prosecution for their unwavering commitment to presenting the evidence deliberately and establishing a compelling case. We respect the integrity of the judicial process and accept the court's decision. It is important to remember that while the court has reached its verdict, this case has brought great grief and loss to the family and loved ones of Mr. Bascome. We extend our deepest sympathies to them during this difficult time. Their pain and loss are immeasurable, and our thoughts and support remain with them. We appeal for the community to remain vigilant and support one another during this healing process. It is essential that we come together as a community to show empathy and understanding, as we navigate the aftermath of this trial. While there are currently no further suspects in this matter, the Bermuda Police Service encourages anyone who may have additional information that could bring closure to this case to come forward and make contact with us."

Drugs Seizure: Investigation Ongoing

Monday, January 15,2024

The Bermuda Police Service has commenced an investigation into the discovery of multiple cannabis cultivation plots in the eastern end of the island. Police were alerted to the location of a “grow site” in the St. George's area on Friday, January 12th, 2024. Officers attended the location and further inquiries led to the discovery of additional sites. One hundred and thirty-eight mature plants have been seized so far, and the investigation into this matter remains ongoing. We urge anyone with information about cannabis cultivation or drug supply in their community to call the main police number, 295-0011. You may also share the information with a police officer you know or, via the Community Reporting Portal at, https://portal.police.bm.

Robbery Witness Appeal: Walker Christopher Jewellery Store

Saturday, January 13,2024

Around 1:12 p.m. on Saturday, January 13th, 2024, police received a report that a male had entered the Walker Christopher Jewellery store on Queen Street, in the City of Hamilton and used a hammer to smash a showcase. The suspect then grabbed a quantity of jewellery and fled the scene on the back of a motorcycle driven by another male. The suspect is described as about 5’10” tall, of stocky build. The motorcycle rider was described as being approximately 6’2” tall and light complexioned. An investigation into this incident is now underway. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Dawn Hector by calling 515-2594 or via email dhector@bps.bm. You may also call the Criminal Investigations Division on 247-1744. Alternatively we encourage you to speak with a police officer you know or share the information by visiting the community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm/.

1st Road Fatality of 2024: 17-Year-Old Jeremiah Phillips

Monday, January 08,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now confirm the identity of the victim in that fatal road traffic collision which occurred this past weekend, as 17-year-old Jeremiah Phillips. Mr. Phillips succumbed to injuries sustained in the collision which occurred around 3:30 a.m. yesterday, Sunday, 7th January, 2024, on Verdmont Road, just south of the junction with Verdmont Valley Drive, Smith’s. At the time, Mr. Phillips was riding a motorcycle with a pillion passenger travelling north along Verdmont Road. He was negotiating a sweeping left hand bend when the motorcycle he was riding became involved in a collision with three other motorcycles travelling in the opposite direction. His pillion passenger, a 15-year-old male, remains listed in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit of the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. A 19-year-old male who was riding one of the other motorcycles involved in the collision was attended to at hospital for his injuries and discharged. The BPS has begun an investigation into this matter and anyone with information, is asked to contact PC Victor Fishington on 717-0836 or, via e-mail at vfishington@bps.bm. You may also speak with a police officer you know or, call the main police number 295-0011. A BPS Family Liaison Officer has been appointed to assist the family of the deceased during this difficult time. We extend to them, our sincere condolences.

Car Overboard North Shore Road, Smith's Parish

Sunday, January 07,2024

Around 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, 7th January 2024, Police and Emergency Medical Services were dispatched to a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a private motor car on North Shore Road, Smith's near Penhurst Park. It was reported that the motor car was traveling westwhen the driver lost control of the vehicle which, went through the railing and landed partly in the water near the dock at Penhurst Park. The male passenger wastransported to hospital by fire personnel for treatment for his injuries which were not considered serious.

Fatal Collision Witness Appeal: 1st Road Death of 2024

Sunday, January 07,2024

Around 3:30 a.m. on Sunday, January 7th, 2024, police and other first responders were dispatched to a reported serious road traffic collision, involving four motorcycles, on Verdmont Road, just south of the junction with Verdmont Valley Drive, Smith’s. One bike, ridden by a 17-year-old male with a 15-year-old male pillion passenger in tow, was reportedly traveling north on Verdmont Road toward Middle Road, when it was involved in a collision with the three other bikes which were all traveling in a southerly direction. The rider and pillion passenger of the bike traveling north, sustained life-threatening injuries in the collision. The rider was unresponsive and EMTs began performing life-saving efforts as the two were transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the rider succumbed to his injuries a short time later. At last check the pillion passenger was reported to be in critical condition. The male 19-year-old rider of one of the other bikes sustained non-life threatening injuries to his hand and leg. At last check he was being attended to for his injuries at hospital. The other two riders, also males, one 18-years-old, the other 19-years-old, were not reported to be injured. An investigation into this, the first fatal road traffic collision of the year, has begun and anyone with information, is asked to contact PC Victor Fishington on 717-0836 or, via e-mail at vfishington@bps.bm.  You may also speak with a police officer you know or, call the main police number 295-0011.

Reported Serious Three Vehicle Collision in Southampton

Sunday, January 07,2024

Around 5:50 PM on Saturday, 6 January 2024, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a serious three vehicle road traffic collision on Middle Road  near the Port Royal Esso service station. Initial reports suggest that a motorcyclist, traveling in an easterly direction, collided with a motor car that was negotiating a right hand turn into the service station, and was thrown into the path of another motor car. The motorcycle rider was transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment of suspected head injuries, the extent of which is not known at this time. There were no other reported injuries. Traffic is being diverted, using a single lane system. Delays are to be expected while the scene is being forensically processed. Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to call Constable Dinell Bean on 211 or email dbean@bps.bm.

Residents Urged to Remain Vigilant for Online & Phone Scams

Friday, January 05,2024

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) continues to urge residents to remain vigilant regarding online scams and phone scams. While such scams are always evolving, most use similar tactics involving social engineering, which can be defined as all techniques aimed at persuading someone to reveal specific information or perform a specific action, for illegitimate purposes. Air of Legitimacy, Enticement & Pressure to Act Quickly Be extremely wary of any unexpected correspondence sent from official-looking e-mail addresses, offering cash or other prizes. Similarly, it is wise to be suspicious of any e-mail claiming that an online account will be locked/deleted, or has been compromised. Fraudsters often call/text suddenly using similar methods, portraying themselves as an official representative of a local bank or an authorised agent of a well-known global company. In addition, an unreasonably short deadline is almost always imposed by the con artists, making it more likely that unsuspecting individuals will provide their personal information, i.e. names, birth date, banking details and login credentials. Red Flags Emphasis on the need to take action urgently. Unexpected e-mails from unknown/random senders that require clicking on any links or attachments. Offers via call, text, e-mail or social media that seem too good to be true – especially those that require submitting personal information to claim. Practical Tips Don’t install any software recommended by an unknown caller or e-mail sender. Hang up on callers who ask for personal information and either call the business to confirm if there is a problem, or contact the police for advice. If possible, use two-step verification for important online accounts. Check your bank account(s) regularly for any unusual activity. Don’t click on links and attachments in e-mails from unknown senders. Report any suspected fraud to the relevant bank and the police immediately. Family members and friends are urged to update their senior citizen relatives with this information, as seniors are often targeted by swindlers. To make a police report regarding suspected fraud, please call 211 or visit the BPS community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm/.

Retirement of Constable Michael Redfern & Constable Timothy Evelyn

Friday, January 05,2024

After almost 75 years combined service, police Constables Michael Redfern and Timothy Evelyn, have retired from the Bermuda Police Service (BPS). Both officers were recently recognised by Commissioner Darrin Simons for their hard work, dedication to duty, leadership and mentoring as well as their commitment and dedication to service. Michael "Mick" Redfern will be well remembered for his time as a senior investigative officer who worked on and helped solve a number of high profile cases along with helping to train up so many young officers helping them to hone their skills as detectives. Timothy "Timmy" Evelyn is also well known among his colleagues for his high standards of policing and his efforts to ensure they too meet and do not deviate from those standards. Having made his mark in several areas of policing but most notably as a member of the Roads Policing Unit, Mr. Evelyn's willingness to pass on the knowledge and experience gained after more than thirty years with the BPS has helped ensure the newer members of the BPS are well prepared to meet the mandate of making Bermuda safer. Constable Michael Redfern & Constable Timothy Evelyn with Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons  

Operation Vega Statistics (Q4 2023)

Wednesday, January 03,2024

Figures recorded as part of Operation Vega in the 4th quarter of 2023, show impaired driving continues to be a troublingly prolific offence. Of note, 2023 witnessed the highest number of impaired driving arrests over a three-year period. Robert Cardwell, Acting Superintendent, Tactical Support Division stated: “We must move away from a culture where impaired driving is acceptable. It must be heavily frowned upon and be of concern to us all in order that the necessary change in thinking can be achieved.” “The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) reminds the motoring public that just as it is against the law to drive while under the influence of alcohol, it is also an offence to drive whilst impaired through drug use. Driving while under the influence of drugs, whether illegal or prescribed, means you are driving whilst impaired. The BPS will this year act to significantly address the issue of drug impaired driving.” Speeding also continues to rank high among traffic offences reported. We are also concerned by the number of people operating vehicles which are uninsured, unlicensed or both and persons operating vehicles while not having a valid driver’s licence. Mr. Cardwell added: “We continue to encourage motorists to comply with traffic regulations and drive responsibly. Don’t wait until you’re somehow impacted by impaired driving before you take action against it and please, slow down. We urge you to work with us and do your part to make our roads safer for all residents and visitors.” In this period – 4th Quarter (1/10/23 to 31/12/23) the break-down of traffic offences reported is as follows: OFFENCE:                                                      October           November        December Impaired Driving                                          14 (-2)              25 (+11)             31 (+6) Speeding                                                       111 (-54)          155 (+44)          171 (+16) Unlicensed Vehicle                                      19 (-5)              47 (+28)             64 (+17) No third party insurance                              16 (-2)              33 (+17)             54 (+21) No Driver’s license                                       14  (-9)            31 (+17)              59 (+28) Manner of driving                                        0 (-3)               10 (+10)              12  (+2) Disqualified                                                   2 (-0)                9 (+7)                  1 (-8) Traffic Sign                                                    21 (-25)            80 (+59)             44 (-15) Seatbelt                                                         7 (+3)               3 (-4)                   2 (-1) Helmet                                                           0 (-2)               7 (+5)                   12 (+5) Handheld device                                          0 (-4)               6 (+6)                   1 (-5) Defective vehicle                                         0 (-0)                3 (+3)                  4 (+1) Fail to give name/address                         0 (-2)                0 (+0)   1             0 (0) Fail to Stop                                                   1 (-1)                5 (+4)                  4 (-1) Fraud Docs                                                   1 (+1)               1 (+0)                   2 (+1) Making False Statement                            0 (+0)               1 (+1)                  1 (+0) License Plate offence                                 0(+0)                0 (+0)   0              0 (0) Tint Offence                                                 0 (+0)               0 (+0)                   0 (0) Youth License Offence                               3 (+3)               0 (-3)                   1 (+1) Parking                                                          250                  156                      267 (+111) MAN                                                              41                     74                        48 (-26) IMPAIRED DRIVER ARRESTS TOTALS: 2021 - 170 2022 - 229 2023 – 263

Proactive Policing Activity: New Year’s Holiday Weekend Overview

Tuesday, January 02,2024

During the New Year’s Day holiday weekend – from 5pm Friday, 29th December 2023 until 5am Tuesday, 2nd January 2024 – the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) carried out proactive policing patrols throughout the island. In summary, this BPS activity resulted in: 4 males arrested for possessing bladed articles. 6 suspected impaired drivers arrested. 13 people arrested for various other offences. 21 traffic tickets issued. Bladed Articles Seized & Four Arrests Made Four local males were arrested for possession of bladed articles in three separate incidents, with court appearances pending. One male was arrested during a traffic initiative in St. George’s, the afternoon of 1st January 2024; another male was arrested in the early morning hours of 1st January 2024 on Front Street, City of Hamilton; while the other two males were arrested the night of 31st December 2023, after being stopped for a traffic infraction by mobile patrol officers in Paget. Six Arrested on Suspicion of Impaired Driving Court appearances are also anticipated for six people arrested on suspicion of impaired driving, with 3 failing the alco-analyser test and 3 refusing to take it. 13 Arrested for Various Other Offences Those arrested include 4 people for outstanding warrants; 2 people for wilful damage; as well as 1 person for assault on police; 1 for common assault; 1 for possession of a controlled drug; 1 for burglary; 1 for stealing a vehicle; 1 for theft; and 1 for prowling. 21 Traffic Tickets & 14 Official Written Warnings Issued to Motorists BPS patrol officers issued 5 tickets to motorists for not having a driver’s licence; 4 tickets for not having vehicle insurance; 4 tickets for operating an unlicensed vehicle; 4 tickets for speeding; 2 tickets for having illegal licence plates; 1 ticket for driving without due care and 1 ticket for permitting an unlicensed person to drive. In addition, 14 motorist advice notices or official written warnings, were also issued.

New Year’s Holiday Policing

Thursday, December 28,2023

Acting Superintendent Jerome Laws, Officer in Charge (OIC) Community Policing Division - "The Bermuda Police Service wish to thank the public for their co-operation and assistance in ensuring the Christmas Holiday weekend was free of any major incidents or criminal activity. As we approach the New Year’s Holiday weekend, we are asking that you continue to work with us to ensure a continued safe and enjoyable festive season. For our part, we will maintain a high-profile police presence as we provide public reassurance and work to deter criminal activity and anti-social behaviour. We are well prepared to respond to and deal with calls for assistance by members of the public to incidents of crime or disorder. To that end, there will be increased traffic enforcement with officers adopting a zero-tolerance approach to road traffic offences, particularly those involving impaired driving. During this period, licensed premises and private venues throughout the island will hold New Year’s Eve theme parties and events. In keeping with tradition, those in attendance may engage in having a few drinks to celebrate. Please be reminded that Roadside Sobriety Checkpoints will be in place starting tomorrow, Friday, December 29, 2023, through to Tuesday, January 2, 2024. We urge you to make the necessary arrangements in order to ensure that you return home safely, if you plan on consuming alcohol while out celebrating. As we’ve often stated, the life you save could well be your own. Additionally, driving after using any mind-altering substance, is considered impaired driving. Do not operate any vehicle if you have used any drugs, prescription or otherwise, that may alter your mental state. The Corporation of St. George will host their annual ‘Dropping of the Onion’ event at King’s Square in the Olde Towne on Sunday, 31st December 2023. The Bermuda Football Association will host the Shield and Friendship Cup Finals at Wellington Oval, St. George’s Cricket Club on Monday, January 1st, 2024. The Shield Final will kick off at 12:00 noon followed by the Friendship Final at 2:30 p.m. If you intend on attending any or all of these events, please be aware that there will be a heightened police presence to ensure safe enjoyment for members of the public. You can expect there will be traffic checkpoints in operation with searches being done under section 315F of the Criminal Code Act 1907. We ask that you co-operate with the officers at these locations and follow their instructions should you be stopped. Our intention is to maintain order and provide reassurance to the public while they celebrate the coming new year. We would much prefer there is compliance by members of the public rather than our officers having to arrest and charge anyone. However, when and where required, we will decisively address any acts of criminality or anti-social behaviour. We wish to take this opportunity to wish all residents of Bermuda a happy, healthy, safe, prosperous 2024 and we look forward to continuing to partner with you as we all work to make Bermuda safer."

Witness Appeal: Four Vehicle Collision in Southampton

Sunday, December 24,2023

Around 3:37 p.m. on Friday December 22, police officers were on mobile patrol when they came upon a serious four vehicle road traffic collision involving two motorcars and two motorcycles on Middle Road near the junction with Homestead Lane, Southampton. It is understood an 18-year-old male motorcyclist was traveling west along Middle Road, when he attempted to overtake a line of traffic. He collided with another motorcycle which was also travelling west and attempting to overtake the same line of traffic. The collision resulted in the 18-year-old male striking one motorcar  and being thrown into the path of another, traveling in the opposite direction. He sustained non-life-threatening injuries including lacerations to the face and a broken arm. EMTs attended the location and transported the injured male to King Edward Hospital for further treatment for his injuries. At last check he remained under observation at hospital. There were no other reported injuries. The collision resulted in delays while the scene was forensically, processed and officers directed traffic along the railway trail. We wish to thank the public for their patience and cooperation while officers worked to have the roadway cleared. An investigation into this matter has begun and anyone with information is asked to contact PC Adam Mattatall, by calling the main police number, 295-0011 or, via e-mail at, amattatall@bps.bm.

Christmas Policing

Friday, December 22,2023

Commissioner of Police, Darrin Simons - "As the Christmas holiday approaches, we at the Bermuda Police Service, (BPS), would like to extend warmest greetings to each and every one of you. During this festive period, which extends into the new year, we want to ensure that you not only have a wonderful time but also prioritize safety. Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or any form of intoxication, poses a significant threat to public safety. Please make responsible choices. Designate a sober driver or, take advantage of public transportation options. Remember, your choices impact not only your own life, but also those of innocent people around you. While the holiday period can be a busy time, it is crucial to respect and adhere to speed limits. Speeding not only endangers your life but also increases the risk of accidents causing serious injuries or fatalities. Let us all make a commitment to drive responsibly, maintain appropriate speeds, and respect the safety of pedestrians and other vehicles. To ensure your safety and maintain order during the holiday season, we will be continuing the current heightened police presence across the island. Our officers will be vigilant in enforcing traffic regulations, identifying impaired drivers, and promptly addressing any anti-social behaviour. We will be conducting roadside sobriety checkpoints at various locations in all Parishes starting Friday, December 29th, 2023. through to Tuesday January 2nd, 2024, in order to deter and detect impaired driving. These measures are in place for your protection and the well-being of our entire community. The BPS is committed to providing a safe environment for all residents and visitors. In conclusion, we extend our warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyous and peaceful Christmas. May this season be filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Let's work together to make this holiday truly special and safe."

Drugs Seizure and Arrest

Tuesday, December 19,2023

Around 10:45 p.m. on Friday, December 15, 2023, police officers were conducting vehicle checks along Kindley Field Road in St. George’s, when they stopped a motorcar traveling east along the said road. Checks showed the vehicle to be unlicensed and uninsured. The driver, a 30-year-old-male, was also found to be operating the vehicle while having an expired driver’s license. Officers proceeded to search the vehicle and recovered a quantity of suspected cannabis resin, ecstasy tablets, crack-cocaine along with drug paraphernalia. The suspect was arrested for possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply, as well as for possession of drug paraphernalia. A search of the subject's residence was conducted and other items liable for seizure recovered. A court appearance in relation to this matter is expected in due course.

Traffic Advisory: Heightened BPS Road Presence During the Holiday Season

Monday, December 18,2023

Close to ten thousand dollars in traffic fines issued in Magistrates' Court today. A number of those fined were for driving unlicensed and uninsured vehicles. Troublingly, impaired driving also featured among the offences for which fines were issued. In fact, over this past weekend there were three people arrested and held in custody for driving whilst impaired. Acting Superintendent, Robert Cardwell of the police Support Unit stated: “We cannot sufficiently stress how dangerous it is for someone to operate a vehicle whilst impaired.” “By doing so you place not yourself, as well as members of the public, at increased risk of serious injury or, loss of life” “Not the kind of situation you want to be faced with at any time, but particularly during Christmas. Just don’t do it.” As a reminder, there will be a heightened police presence on the roads over the coming days and weeks and while we urge compliance, officers will not be treating lightly with anyone choosing to disobey the road traffic laws. In addition, Roadside Sobriety Checks will be in effect commencing Friday, December 29, 2023, through Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Again, we urge you: Do not drive if you have been drinking or using mind altering substances, legal or otherwise. Obey all road traffic signs. Drive within the speed limit. Do not use handheld devices while operating a vehicle. We’re sure you’d much prefer to spend your hard earned money on things you need or, to make loved ones happy for Christmas, than having to pay traffic fines. So, let’s all work together to make this a safe and enjoyable Christmas season for all.

Witness Appeal: Ord Road, Warwick Collision

Monday, December 18,2023

Around 12:02 a.m. on Saturday, December 16, 2023, police received reports of a motorcycle rider found breathing but unresponsive on Ord Road near the junction with Banana Lane, Warwick. Police and other first responders attended the scene and found the victim, a 31-year-old male going in and out of consciousness. It is understood he was traveling in a westerly direction along Ord Road, when he collided with a private motorcar. He was attended to at the scene by EMTs and subsequently transported to King Edward Hospital for treatment for his injuries, which were deemed to be serious. At last check he was conscious, alert and speaking. He has since been transported overseas for further medical treatment. An investigation into this matter is now underway and anyone with information is asked to contact Police Constable Dinnell Bean on 515-2413 or, via e-mail at dbean@bps.bm. You may also speak with a police officer you know or, use the Community Reporting Portal at https://portal.police.bm.

11-Year-Old Boy Struck By Car Last Week Recovering in U.S. Hospital

Thursday, December 14,2023

At last check, an 11-year-old boy seriously hurt after being struck by a car one week ago in Sandys parish, was recovering in a U.S. hospital. The local student was initially treated at the scene by emergency medical technicians, then admitted into the Intensive Care Unit of King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, before being airlifted to the U.S. for further medical care. The collision occurred around 3:45pm Thursday, 7th December 2023, on Somerset Road, just outside of Somerset Bridge Apartments, when the boy attempted to cross the road after getting off a minibus. Additional individuals have since come forward to assist with ongoing inquiries and the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) appreciates their cooperation. As a reminder, the investigating officer Constable Denise Taylor can be contacted on 247-1683 or, via e-mail at dtaylor@bps.bm. Members of the public with relevant information can also call the main police number 295-0011, speak with a police officer they know, or use the BPS community reporting portal at https://portal.police.bm.