The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is offering a reward of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000) for information leading to the successful capture and arrest of two escaped fugitives, Jose Almestica (left) and John M. Burgos (right), both residents of the United States Virgin Islands. Photo: RVIPF/File

Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos unlawfully escaped from His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, Tortola, on October 25, 2025, and have since evaded law enforcement. Photo: RVIPF

The two men unlawfully escaped from His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, Tortola, on October 25, 2025, and have since evaded law enforcement.

The RVIPF, in a press release today, June 3, 2026, urged anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these fugitives to come forward. Persons can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9512 or provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 284-800 8477 from overseas.

'Armed & extremely dangerous'

Both men are considered armed and extremely dangerous. Members of the public are strongly advised not to approach either individual under any circumstances.

At the time of their escape, Almestica was serving a sentence of six (6) years for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. He had also been found guilty by a nine-member jury in October 2025 for four (4) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm, one (1) count of Possession of a Prohibited Firearm, three (3) counts of Unlawful Possession of Explosives and two (2) counts of Possession of a Controlled Drug with Intent to Supply. He was awaiting sentencing for these offences.

Additionally, Almestica is awaiting trial in relation to the 2021 murder of Deverson Williams at Fish Bay, Tortola. He is further wanted by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands for serious offences, including First-degree Murder, Second-degree Murder, and Assault.

Burgos was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison, Balsam Ghut, on charges relating to firearms, ammunition, and drug possession.

He is also wanted for questioning by the United States Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) in connection with a 2023 murder investigation.

"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," the RVIPF stated.