U.S. Virgin Islands police are on alert after authorities in the neighboring British Virgin Islands reported that two inmates escaped from His Majesty’s Prison in Tortola over the weekend — including one man with ties to St. Thomas.
A text alert went out in the USVI Monday, with V.I. Police Department spokesperson Glen Dratte explaining that the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force reached out to territorial authorities as the search continues for Jose Almestica and John Burgos, who were discovered missing around 9 p.m. Saturday.
Dratte said the VIPD has been notified and that officers across the territory are aware of the situation and remain on alert as patrols continue.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force confirmed the escape late Saturday night and issued a public alert asking residents not to approach the men but to call police immediately at 368-9339, 311, or CrimeStoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) if they are seen. For photos, click here.
No additional details have been released on how the inmates escaped or whether there is reason to believe they may have traveled to the U.S. Virgin Islands, as the search continues.