Police Charge Jesus Valdez with Murder in Newtown Shooting

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has charged Jesus Valdez of John Street, Newtown, with the murder of Crisbel Rivera, an 18-year-old Dominican Republic national. The tragic shooting occurred on 17th April, 2024, at John Street.

Valdez was officially charged on 12th December, 2024, at the Basseterre Police Station, marking a significant development in the case. Rivera, who resided at Carty Alley, Newtown, was fatally shot in what authorities have described as a heinous act of violence.

A Troubled History with the Law
Valdez, no stranger to law enforcement, has gained notoriety over recent years for a string of legal infractions and dramatic escapades. In 2022 and 2023, he became a recurring subject of public attention and social media memes due to multiple arrests, convictions, and two daring escapes from police custody.

In February 2022, Valdez committed several offences, including three counts of assault and two traffic violations for driving without a valid licence and insurance. He was convicted on all charges on 9th February, 2024. The court sentenced him to 30 days in prison for each assault charge, to run concurrently, alongside 14 days for driving without a licence and one month for driving without insurance, also to run concurrently.

Valdez’s tumultuous interactions with law enforcement escalated in April 2024 when he escaped custody on 14th April. After evading authorities for 16 days, he was recaptured in Newtown and subsequently charged with escaping lawful confinement. However, this was not the end of his legal troubles.

On 16th May, 2024, Valdez escaped again, this time from His Majesty’s Prison. The escape led to a three-week manhunt before he was finally apprehended in Godwin Ghaut on 9th June, 2024.

Awaiting Justice
Valdez remains in police custody following his latest charge of murder. Authorities continue their investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Rivera, as the public awaits further updates on this tragic case.

This development adds another chapter to Valdez’s troubled history, underscoring the ongoing challenges of addressing violent crime and maintaining public safety within the Federation. The Police have reiterated their commitment to justice and urged the public to report any information that may assist in resolving such cases.