Mugshot of Miguel De Los Santos. Photo Credit: THE VIRGIN ISLANDS POLICE DEPARTMENT
ST. THOMAS — The V.I. Police Department and the V.I. Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs on Jan. 26 collaborated in a joint enforcement operation resulting in the arrest of business owner Miguel De Los Santos, according to a release issued Sunday.
Mi Bloque VI LLC, owned by De Los Santos, received a cease-and-desist order on December 1, 2023, for its operations at 29-30 Altona, St. Thomas. Despite this order, the business continued to operate, leading to a subsequent enforcement action by VIPD and DLCA officers.
During an enforcement operation by VIPD and DLCA officers, challenges arose around 8:30 pm. Miguel De Los Santos, initially not present, arrived and defied orders to shut down his establishment. Law encountered resistance from Angel De Los Santos, who refused to comply with orders to close the establishment. His refusal prompted DLCA’s Chief of Enforcement, Darryl Donovan, to take legal action. De Los Santos was arrested and charged with disobeying a lawful order and operating a business without a valid license.
The DLCA is reminding the public that operating a business without proper licensing is a misdemeanor, punishable by fines or imprisonment, or both. This case serves as a stern reminder to all business owners about the legal requirements and potential consequences of non-compliance.
DLCA Commissioner Designee, H. Nathalie Hodge, stressed the importance of adhering to business regulations for the safety and order of the community. She urged all business owners to ensure compliance with licensing laws to avoid similar legal repercussions.
For further inquiries or concerns regarding business licensing, the DLCA has encouraged the public to contact their offices in St. Thomas at 340.774.3522 or St. Croix at 340.773.3522.
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