Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) Chief of Security J.S. (in wheelchair) outside the Courthouse. (File photo)
PHILIPSBURG–Investigations into Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIA) Chief of Security J.S. (48) led to an undercover police operation during which he allegedly allowed the import of US $100,000 in cash on September 23, 2018, and of a number of fake diamonds on November 6, 2018. For these “services” he reportedly accepted two payments of $5,000 each, the main crime of which he is accused by the Prosecutor’s Office.
The Anti-Corruption Task Force TBO arrested S. at his home on January 16. His home and workplace were also searched. According to the Prosecutor’s Office, he is suspected of accepting bribes, money-laundering and complicity in violation of the duty to register foreign exchange.
“I am innocent and I did not do these things that the person is accusing me of. I have a business in St. Eustatius and he offered to lend me money to help fix my business. At no time did I do anything illegal,” S. told the judge presiding over the case on Monday.
S.’s attorney requested the dismissal of three charges due to insufficient proof.
Based on information obtained from the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in August 2017, S. became the subject of an investigation into the alleged import and export of (hard) drugs via the airport to the United States.
The Prosecutor’s Office did not find any evidence of S.’s involvement in this type of crime, but did find indications that the airport security chief was engaged in other criminal activities. The TBO launched an investigation which ultimately led to the sting operation carried out by an investigating officer from the Netherlands and a team leader.
- was held in custody for some time, but was released for medical reasons. He has been restricted to a wheelchair since he suffered a stroke during his detention and has lost the use of his right arm and leg.
The Court will give its verdict on June 17 or 18.
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/87851-eighteen-months-of-prison-time-requested-for-pjia-security-chief
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