Wahilli Nasco James, Armed Robbery, United States Virgin Islands 2013

St. Thomas Police

St. Thomas, USVI – Wahilli Nasco James, 23, of St. Croix, was sentenced to 87 months in prison for his role in the armed robbery of the Gems and Gold Corner jewelry store, located on the St. Thomas waterfront.

The crime occurred on September 16, 2013, when James and others brandished weapons to threaten and intimidate store employees during the Hobbs Act robbery. James pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm during the crime on January 19, 2018, as part of a plea agreement.

U.S. Attorney Gretchen C.F. Shappert stated, “The flagrant actions of gun-toting robbers will not be tolerated in the Territory.” She added, “In the United States Attorney’s Office, our primary focus is public safety. We intend to target violent criminals for federal prosecution.”

District Court Judge Curtis V. Gomez sentenced James to 87 months in prison for possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and five years of supervised release. James was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment, perform 400 hours of community service, and pay restitution in the amount of $31,027.81 to Gems and Gold Corner and $130,322.12 to Dorchester Insurance.

This case is a result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Virgin Islands Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim L. Chisholm.

The sentence sends a strong message that violent crimes will not be tolerated in the Territory. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with law enforcement to target and prosecute violent criminals.

James’ sentencing is a testament to the hard work and dedication of law enforcement and federal prosecutors in the Territory. The case is a reminder that those who commit violent crimes will face severe consequences.

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