bpspmr's blog
Female Visitor Hurt in Rental Scooter Collision on North Shore Road
Thu, 2023-06-08
Around 11:17am Thursday, 8th June 2023, Bermuda Fire & Rescue Service (BFRS) personnel came across what appears to be a single vehicle collision on North Shore Road near the junction with Jennings Road, Smith’s, involving a tourist on a rental cycle.
The Bermuda Police Service responded to the collision scene shortly after BFRS personnel encountered the incident.
While the exact circumstances remain unclear at this time, it was reported that the injured party, a female tourist and her husband were traveling in the eastbound lane on separate rental cycles, when the woman lost control of her vehicle and as a result, she went over an embankment.
The woman was taken to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance, where she is being treated for multiple injuries.
Traffic headed east was diverted over Jennings Road, while traffic headed west was allowed to continue through in the westbound lane, while the scene was processed.
Normal traffic flow has since resumed in the area.
Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact PC Gregory White on 211 or gwhite@bps.bm.
Read MoreOperation Azkaban
Thu, 2023-06-08
On Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) commenced an operation, dubbed operation “AZKABAN.”
The BPS Crime Division, supported by the Tactical and Community Policing Divisions, commenced this operation in response to the spate of smash and grab burglaries committed over the past couple of months.
On Tuesday, May 30th, the team arrested a 46-year-old man, for a number of burglaries which occurred predominantly at service stations. A day later, another man, aged 36, was also arrested in connection with these matters.
Several warrants were executed at residences in Smiths and Hamilton Parishes, where a number of items connected to the burglaries were discovered and seized. A stolen motorcycle was also recovered.
The 46-year-old suspect has been charged before the courts and, pleaded guilty to a number of these burglaries. The 36-year-old has been released on police bail.
On Tuesday 6th June, 2023, the team again executed several search warrants in the Pembroke, Devonshire and Smiths Parishes, where several items believed to be stolen goods were seized. Two stolen motorcycles were also recovered.
Four persons between the ages of 15 and 19, who police suspect were involved in the smash and grab burglaries in the City of Hamilton and Sandys Parish, were arrested.
A fifth individual was arrested for suspicion of possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply, after police discovered a quantity of controlled drugs during a search of his property. A large quantity of cash believed to be the proceeds of criminality, was also seized.
Detective Superintendent (Ag) Sherwin Joseph, who is currently in charge of the Crime Division stated: “We believe that we have successfully disrupted and dismantled two distinct groups of individuals that were responsible for the spate of commercial breaks in the City of Hamilton and environs.”
“A number of items suspected to be stolen goods have been recovered, and we are now working with local businesses and members of our community to assist with identifying these items”.
No further information will be provided at this time.
The BPS Criminal Investigation Unit continues investigations into these matters.
Two Car Collision on South Road in Paget
Wed, 2023-06-07
Two vehicle collision South Road near the junction with Harvey Road in Paget, involving two motor cars.
Details surrounding the circumstances of the collision are being investigated by police, with information suggesting that the vehicles were traveling in opposite directions when the collision occurred.
A 28 year-old man has been transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment of his injuries, the extent of which is not known at this time.
No other injuries have been reported.
Traffic is currently being diverted at Cobbs Hill Road and Southcote Road, while the scene is being processed.
Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to contact PC Edwin Dill on 211 or edill@bps.bm.
Witness Appeal: Male Visitor in ICU After Two Vehicle Collision in St. George's
Tue, 2023-06-06
At 3:20pm Tuesday, June 6th, 2023, police and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to a reported two motorcycle collision on Mullet Bay Road, St. George’s, just past the Swing Bridge, before the junction with Stokes Point Road.
Upon arrival they found two males and a female lying in the roadway. One male, a 69-year-old visitor from the United States was unresponsive and had suffered a serious head injury. His 66-year-old wife and pillion passenger, also visiting from the U.S., sustained minor bruises about the body. She was conscious and alert. The other male, a 50-year-old Bermudian national, sustained injuries to his neck and left hand. He too was conscious and alert.
The injured parties were attended to at the scene by EMTs before being transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, for further treatment for their injuries.
At last check the American man was warded in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. His injuries are now deemed to be life threatening. His wife remains in the hospital’s Emergency Department as does the Bermudian male. Their injuries are not considered life threatening.
Details of the collision are limited at this time, however, it is understood both men were traveling in opposite directions along Mullet Bay Road when they collided.
The collision resulted in the roadway being closed for approximately one hour, then traffic being restricted to one lane for a further three hours, while the scene was forensically processed.
The Bermuda Police Service (BPS), wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during this exercise.
The BPS is aware of a WhatsApp post shared several times, which indicates the collision was as a result of a police chase involving one of the motorcycle riders.
We wish to dispel this unfounded rumour as there was no police chase in progress when the collision occurred.
An investigation into this incident has now commenced and anyone with information is asked to contact PC Glynn Kellman on 717-2204 or via e-mail, gkellman@bps.bm. You may also share the information using the BPS community portal at https://portal.police.bm.
Reported Two Motorcycle Collision in St. George’s [Updated]
Tue, 2023-06-06
At 3:20pm Tuesday, 6th June 2023, police and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to a reported two motorcycle collision on Mullet Bay Road, St. George’s, just past the Swing Bridge, before the junction with Stokes Point Road.
Early information indicates that two people were injured, with one apparently sustaining a head injury.
Motorists are advised to expect delays in the area, as currently traffic flow has been reduced to one lane, while the collision scene is processed.
Any witnesses are encouraged to call 211 as soon as possible.
A further update is anticipated in due course.
Update: Mullet Bay Road, St George, is once again opened to two way traffic. The Bermuda Police Service wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation, while the traffic flow was restricted during the processing of the scene of this afternoon’s serious road traffic collision.
Second Update: At 3:20pm Tuesday, June 6th, 2023, police and emergency medical personnel were dispatched to a reported two motorcycle collision on Mullet Bay Road, St. George’s, just past the Swing Bridge, before the junction with Stokes Point Road.
Upon arrival they found two males and a female lying in the roadway. One male, a 69-year-old visitor from the United States was unresponsive and had suffered a serious head injury. His 66-year-old wife and pillion passenger, also visiting from the U.S., sustained minor bruises about the body. She was conscious and alert. The other male, a 50-year-old Bermudian national, sustained injuries to his neck and left hand. He too was conscious and alert.
The injured parties were attended to at the scene by EMTs before being transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital, for further treatment for their injuries.
At last check the American man was warded in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. His injuries are now deemed to be life threatening. His wife remains in the hospital’s Emergency Department as does the Bermudian male. Their injuries are not considered life threatening.
Details of the collision are limited at this time, however, it is understood both men were traveling in opposite directions along Mullet Bay Road when they collided.
The collision resulted in the roadway being closed for approximately one hour, then traffic being restricted to one lane for a further three hours, while the scene was forensically processed.
The Bermuda Police Service (BPS), wishes to thank the public for their patience and cooperation during this exercise.
The BPS is aware of a WhatsApp post shared several times, which indicates the collision was as a result of a police chase involving one of the motorcycle riders.
We wish to dispel this unfounded rumour as there was no police chase in progress when the collision occurred.
An investigation into this incident has now commenced and anyone with information is asked to contact PC Glynn Kellman on 717-2204 or via e-mail, gkellman@bps.bm. You may also share the information using the BPS community portal at https://portal.police.bm.
400 Motorist Engagements During 315 F Checks Saturday Night
Mon, 2023-06-05
Proactive, highly visible Bermuda Police Service (BPS) activity was carried out within the City of Hamilton from 9pm Saturday, 3rd June 2023 until 3am Sunday, 4th June 2023.
Part of the exercise saw BPS officers perform 315 F checks along Crow Lane between 9:45pm Saturday and 12:10am Sunday, under the authority outlined in the Criminal Code Amendment (No. 2) Act 2005.
As a result, there were 400 motorist engagements resulting in four arrests for outstanding warrants, four traffic tickets issued for no driver’s licence, one arrest on suspicion of possessing a controlled drug and one arrest for possession of drug equipment.
During police patrols elsewhere in the city, one motorist was arrested for care and control of a vehicle while intoxicated 2:15am Sunday, at the junction of Reid Street and Court Street.
Another motorist received an official written warning regarding their manner of driving.
The specific policing action was accomplished in addition to general patrols throughout the island during this past weekend.
Appropriate enforcement efforts will continue at various locations around the island to reduce the likelihood of violence, while deterring and tackling any traffic offences.
Change of Command Ceremony: Bermuda Reserve Police
Fri, 2023-06-02
At 6:30pm Thursday, 1st June 2023 at the Police Recreation Club hall in Prospect, Devonshire, a new Commandant of the Bermuda Reserve Police
(BRP), Ron-Michel Davis, was officially sworn in by Commissioner of the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) Darrin Simons, in front of a capacity audience.
Outgoing Commandant Sandra Beach was thanked for her 28 years of voluntary service, having joined the BRP on 8th July 1995, the last 7 years served as Commandant. Mrs Beach had the distinction of being the first female officer to lead the BRP. Mrs. Beach gave a speech thanking her colleagues for their support during her time as Commandant.
Incoming Commandant Ron-Michel Davis joined the BRP on 13th November 2001 and was promoted, in March of 2014, to the rank of Deputy Commandant.
Mr. Davis swore the Official Oath, Oath of Allegiance and the Ceremonial Oath in front of a capacity audience of friends, colleagues and family, following which the official change of command was carried out where the Commandant’s sword was ceremonially passed from Commandant Beach to Commandant Davis with due pomp and ceremony.
After being officially sworn in as Commandant Thursday evening, Mr. Davis took the opportunity to thank his family, friends and colleagues for their ongoing support and outlined his plans for the BRP during his tenure as Commandant to which he asked to be held to account, stating that he was a man of his word and that his word was his bond. He also outlined his plans to strengthen ties with other Reserve Police Services in similar jurisdictions including the Royal Bahamas Police Reserves.
The prayer of dedication was given by Mr. Davis’ father the Reverend Rodney Grimes and the Bermuda Police Service Chaplain Dr. Kevin Santucci gave the closing prayer before a rousing performance of the BPS Anthem “True Blue” was played by the Royal Bermuda Regiment Band to close the proceedings.
BPS and BRP senior leadership team members present were Commissioner Darrin Simons, Deputy Commissioner Na’imah Astwood, Assistant Commissioners Martin Weekes and Antoine Daniels, along with Reserve Inspectors Mikkel Harris and Shawn Russell.
Dignitaries and special guests also in attendance included:
Her Excellency the Governor, Ms. Rena Lalgie
Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks JP, MP
Permanent Secretary for National Security, Lt. Col. Edward Lamb
Royal Bermuda Regiment Major Duncan E. R. Simons
Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Dana Lovell
Ombudsman Mr. Michael DeSilva, retired Commissioner of Police
Musical performances by the Royal Bermuda Regiment Band were courtesy of Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Benjamin Beasley.
Photos courtesy of Dexter Flood.
Public Advisory Regarding Voice Note & Video Clips Circulating
Thu, 2023-06-01
The Bermuda Police Service is aware of a voice-note accompanied by video clips warning residents to be aware of an individual suspected of breaking into properties on Second Avenue, Pembroke.
A report has been received from a member of the public and investigation has commenced.
Anyone with any information on this matter is urged to please call 211, the main police number 295-0011 or upload the information to the BPS Community Reporting Portal, https://portal.police.bm.
We also advise against confronting any individual you suspect of having broken into your residence. Instead, please contact police via the aforementioned means.
Assistant Commissioner Weekes: Operation Vega Impaired Driving Statistics
Thu, 2023-06-01
Assistant Commissioner of Police Martin Weekes, Operations: "The most recent Operation Vega statistics indicate that between January and May 2023, there were 117 arrests for impaired driving. For the same period in 2022, there were 71 such arrests.
To say that these numbers are concerning, would be an understatement. Remember, every time you operate a vehicle while impaired, there is the potential to cause significant damage, life altering injury or, death.
Whilst the BPS has stepped up patrols as part of Operation Vega, police presence alone cannot prevent drinking and driving. Roadside Sobriety Checkpoints are advertised days in advance of them being implemented, yet individuals are still arrested for impaired driving during these exercises.
This is a “Bermuda” problem that requires more than enforcement to fix. We as a country must look at the drinking culture that alcohol consumption is a prerequisite for having a good time at social gatherings, be they dinner parties, a session or fete.
That, coupled with the realisation that we must accept individual responsibility for our actions. It might be cliché, but if you plan to drink to have a good time, then you must plan to get home without operating a vehicle on the road.
The BPS do not wish to prevent you having a good time, all we ask is that you consider your actions and those of family and friends around you, to ensure you all get safely home at the end of the day.
While the life you save may be your own, are you prepared to live with the fact that you took the life of another person because you decided to drive drunk, buzzed or high?"
Operation Vega Update for May 2023
Thu, 2023-06-01
Chief Inspector Robert Cardwell, Tactical Operations Division – “The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) continues our efforts to reduce harm on Bermuda’s roads. As we enter the summer months, it is likely that there will be an increased number of visitors using the island’s roads. Please look out for them and each other, by making sensible decisions while driving or riding.”
Statistics
From 1st January until 31st May 2023, 117 motorists were arrested for impaired driving – 14 in January, 27 in February, 25 in March, 21 in April and 30 in May. In comparison, for the same five month period in 2022, a total of 71 motorists were arrested for impaired driving.
During the month of May 2023, 284 traffic tickets were issued by the BPS, down from 471 issued during April 2023. In addition, 50 motorist advice notices (official written warnings) were issued in May, down from 59 in the previous month.
May also saw 175 parking tickets issued, down from 209 parking tickets issued the month before.
Since the start of Operation Vega (6th July 2021), a total of 10,014 traffic tickets have been issued. The breakdown of ticketed traffic offences for May 2023 is below. The change compared to April 2023 is provided in brackets.
Speeding 78 (-71) Speeds ranged from 59 kph to 86 kph.
Traffic sign 34 (+5)
Unlicensed vehicle 45 (-35)
No third party insurance 40 (-24)
No driver’s licence 32 (-25)
Manner of driving 9 (-2)
Disqualified driver 1 (0)
Seatbelt 23 (+14)
Helmet 2 (-6)
Handheld device 5 (-13)
Defective vehicle 1 (-2)
Fail to give name/address 0 (0)
Fail to stop 3 (-4)
Fraudulent documents 3 (+3)
Making false statement 0 (0)
License plate offence 8 (-8)
Tint offence 0 (-14)
Youth license offence 0 (-4)
