ST. THOMAS, United States Virgin Islands, Mar 30, CMC – United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency says its officers have filed a US federal criminal complaint against five Caribbean immigrants found illegally present in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) attempting to board flights departing from the Cyril E. King airport in St. Thomas towards the US mainland.
CBP said the five unidentified defendants appeared before the US District Court facing charges for violations to title 8 United States Code section 1325 for improper entry into the United States.
“The consistent application of consequences for individuals found illegally present in the US Virgin Islands is essential to maintaining the integrity of immigration laws and protecting national security,” stated Roberto Vaquero, Director of Field Operations for Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
“A firm but fair enforcement approach deters unlawful entry, disrupts human smuggling networks, and upholds the rule of law,” he added. “By ensuring that immigration policies are effectively implemented, authorities reinforce the message that unauthorized entry carries legal repercussions while also promoting a safe and orderly migration system.”
CBP said it has “a complex mission at ports of entry with broad law enforcement authorities tied to screening all foreign visitors, returning American citizens and imported cargo that enters the US at more than 300 land, air and sea ports.”
CMC/NK/nb/2025