Leon King

Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News

Leon King

Photo Credit: BVI Platinum News

Leon King, a boat captain residing at Cane Garden Bay (CGB) will go before a trial this week in connection with a boat and money seizure involving $136,629.00 which occurred in January at Frenchman's Cay, West End.

King, who is currently on remand for another matter, was told that the trial will commence on September 14. He is represented by Herbert McKenzie.

The man is charged with acquisition and possession or use of proceeds of criminal conduct.

It is alleged that on Tuesday, January 24 around 2:25 pm, Police Officers from the Proactive Unit were on duty in Soper's Hole, West End when they observed a small open boat named 'Over Easy'.

The boat entered Soper's Hole from open waters and docked in the vicinity of a bridge that connects Tortola to Frenchman's Cay.

King was the captain of the boat and sole occupant at the time.

It is alleged that after docking, King went to a green Suzuki motor jeep PV9528 that was parked in the vicinity. Police Officers then approached him and identified themselves as Police Officers in plain clothing. He was told about their suspicion that he was carrying out illegal activities.

Officers then searched the boat in the presence of King and a black bag containing large sums of money was found. When asked about the cash, King did not respond.

King was further told about the suspicion of him being involved in money laundering and King allegedly told the officers that he had no knowledge of the boat and that he had just gotten in from Jost Van Dyke and was dropped off at the main dock and he walked over to his jeep.

During the search of the vehicle, Police Officers found some keys which fit the ignition of the boat 'Over Easy'.

The monies that were found were later counted and amounted to $136,620.