BVI man detained in USVI in smuggling case

A BVI man has been arrested and detained in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) after being accused of involvement in a human smuggling operation.

Danny Dennevil, 34, of Tortola, is facing charges related to illegally bringing foreign nationals into the United States.

According to a press release from the US Attorney’s Office, Dennevil was arrested on September 26, 2024, after he allegedly transported two individuals from the BVI to St John in the USVI. US Coast Guard and Customs and Border Protection officers intercepted Dennevil’s vessel as it entered US waters, noting that the boat was not displaying lights, which raised suspicion.

According to the release, “The unlit vessel, operated by Dennevil, travelled from Tortola, BVI to Leinster Bay, St John, where it offloaded two individuals on the beach. Dennevil immediately departed Leinster Bay and headed back towards Tortola.”

Despite orders from law enforcement to stop, Dennevil reportedly attempted to evade capture, prompting officers to disable his vessel. Following the interception, officers discovered two Dominican Republic nationals and detained them along with Dennevil.