The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) and the Office of the City Manager have issued a joint appeal to residents and contractors involved in grounds maintenance following a notable increase in reports of property damage caused by weed cutters and similar equipment across Road Town and surrounding areas. Photo: Internet Source

The RVIPF reminded the public that reckless destruction or damage to another person’s property may amount to a criminal offence under Section 281(1) of the Criminal Code, 2013 Revised Edition. Photo: Internet Source

Mrs Janice I. Brathwaite-Edwards, City Manager, emphasised that beyond property damage there is a real risk of bodily injury from flying debris if safety precautions are ignored. Photo: VINO/ File

According to a press release, the authorities acknowledged the important work carried out by those who maintain the territory’s green spaces; however, they note the importance of addressing the growing concerns regarding damage to vehicles, windows, and other private property, as officials say flying debris from weed cutting activities has been responsible for damage to vehicles, windows, and other private property.

Legal consequences highlighted 

The RVIPF reminded the public that reckless destruction or damage to another person’s property may amount to a criminal offence under Section 281(1) of the Criminal Code, 2013 Revised Edition. 

The RVIPF also warned that the offence becomes more serious where reckless conduct endangers human life under Section 281(2) and therefore convicted persons face heavy penalties, which are on summary conviction, imprisonment for up to five years; on conviction on indictment, imprisonment for up to ten years, per Section 281(4).

“All persons engaged in grounds maintenance activities must exercise due care and take all reasonable precautions to prevent damage to property and injury to others,” the RVIPF and the Office of the City Manager said in the joint statement. “Failure to do so could be deemed recklessness and leave persons open to criminal prosecution.”

City Manager issues safety warning

Mrs Janice I. Brathwaite-Edwards, City Manager, emphasised that beyond property damage, there is a real risk of bodily injury from flying debris if safety precautions are ignored. “While we value the work of those persons who see to the upkeep, maintenance and cleanliness of our green spaces, we must ensure this work is carried out safely,” she said. “The damage to vehicles and property is a growing problem. There is also a clear risk that persons could suffer serious bodily injury from flying debris if proper safety precautions are not taken.” 

The press release stated that to address this, the City Manager’s office has purchased safety screens that are available on loan for persons who require them. 

Mrs Brathwaite-Edwards and the RVIPF also strongly encouraged those conducting grounds maintenance to:

1. Purchase their own screens to protect property. 
2. Take due precaution to prevent damage or harm to others. 
3. Assess the environment before starting work, removing or isolating potential targets such as vehicles and windows.
4. Restrict public and other persons from the work area during operation.

Call for cooperation

The RVIPF and the Office of the City Manager are committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and visitors and urge the public to cooperate by taking the necessary precautions to prevent damage and injury.