St. Thomas, USVI - On June 25, 2020, the Economic Crimes Unit initiated an investigation into two separate complaints of reported cases of Obtaining Money by False Pretenses. Investigation into the complaints revealed that Mr. Jeffrey Magras, the owner of a construction company, intentionally took over $20,000 from victims of Hurricane Irma and Maria to renovate their homes and did not fulfill his obligations.

Jeffrey Magras

An arrest warrant was obtained for Jeffrey John Magras’ arrest. Investigation further revealed that 62-year-old John Magras was no longer in the Territory of the Virgin Islands. The warrant was placed in the National Crime Information Systems (N.C.I.C) and on January 29, 2023, he was apprehended in the state of Florida. Shortly after being detained in the state of Florida, he declined to waive extradition and later was apprehended on a Governor’s Warrant.

On Saturday, June 2, 2023, Mr. Magras was brought back to the Territory through the extradition process, and he was turned over to the Economic Crimes Unit detectives and charged for Grand Larceny and Obtaining Money by False Pretenses. Mr. Magras’ bail was set at $25,000. Mr. Magras was advised of his Constitutional Rights and refused to provide a statement. Unable to post bail, he was remanded to the Bureau of Corrections pending Advise of Rights Hearing.

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All individuals listed as arrested or charged with a crime in this press release are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.