Security officer for USVI governor accused of drug smuggling

CHARLOTTE AMALIE, Virgin Islands – A security officer for the governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands has been charged with attempting to smuggle 21 kilograms (48 pounds) of cocaine aboard a commercial plane bound for South Florida.

The local U.S. Attorney’s Office said Monday that 37-year-old Neal Chesterfield used his credentials to bypass screening as he prepared to board a flight Saturday from St. Thomas. Officials said that they found the drugs in his carry-on luggage and that they also seized more than $26,000 in cash from his computer bag.

It was not immediately clear if Chesterfield had an attorney. He is being held pending trial.

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