STT Woman Tries to Cash $130K in Checks: Arrested

A.J. Pike

St. Thomas, USVI - On August 1, 2025, Detectives from the Economic Crime Unit (ECU) initiated an investigation following a complaint filed against Vashti Gumbs. The investigation revealed that Ms. Gumbs entered the First Bank’s Waterfront Branch on August 1, 2025, and attempted to cash a $51,300.00 check, drawn on the First Bank account of the Territorial Public Defender. 

During the First Bank’s check verification process, Ms. Gumbs left the bank before completing the transaction, leaving the check behind and departing before police arrival. First Bank had subsequently determined the check was fraudulent. The ECU made contact with management at the Territorial Public Defender’s office, who confirmed that the check had not been issued to Ms. Gumbs.

On August 8, 2025, Detectives from the ECU responded once again to the First Bank’s Waterfront Branch after being notified that Ms. Gumbs had returned and was attempting to cash another check, in the amount of $80,546.00, also drawn on the account of the Territorial Public Defender. 

Patrol officers arrived on the scene and immediately apprehended Ms. Gumbs. The ECU contacted management from the Territorial Public Defender’s office, and they confirmed that the check was not issued to Ms. Gumbs.

Ms. Gumbs was then transported to the ECU office for questioning. Vashti Gumbs, age 23, was placed under arrest and charged with two counts Passing Forged Bills or Notes. She was then processed, and her bail was set at $5,500. Unable to post bail, Ms. Gumbs was remanded to the Bureau of Corrections pending her Advice of Rights hearing.