ILLEGAL TAXI OPERATOR CHARGED, ST. THOMAS, JAMAICA
Detectives assigned to the St. Thomas Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), in collaboration with the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA), have arrested and charged Richard Cummings, a 21-year-old man from the Yallahs District, St. Thomas. The accused, who was allegedly operating an illegal taxi service along the St. Thomas to Kingston route, has been charged with the following:
- Rape
- Robbery with Aggravation
- Abduction
- Possession of a Prohibited Weapon
- Aiding and Abetting Grievous Sexual Assault
The incident occurred on Friday, June 20, 2025, when a female passenger boarded a vehicle believed to be operating as a taxi. During the journey, a second male reportedly entered the vehicle and, upon doing so, brandished a firearm. The victim was allegedly robbed of her personal belongings and sexually assaulted by both men.
The victim was later released in a remote location, approximately three kilometers from the point of the initial incident. A report was immediately made to the St. Thomas Police, prompting a swift, intelligence-led investigation to be launched.
On Saturday, June 21, 2025, detectives apprehended the main suspect. He was subsequently placed on an identification parade, where he was positively identified. Following a formal interview conducted in the presence of his lawyer, the accused was subsequently charged with the offenses.
The Jamaica Constabulary Force is urging members of the public to remain vigilant when using public transportation and to report any suspicious or unlicensed operators. We remain committed to bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
Anyone with information that may assist this investigation is asked to contact the St. Thomas CIB or Crime Stop at 311.
