VIPD Economic Crime Unit Arrests Brett “Mac” McClafferty in $888,500 Fraud Investigation on St. Thomas
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands — The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) Economic Crime Unit has arrested Brett “Mac” McClafferty in connection with a major fraud investigation involving approximately $888,500 in alleged counterfeit and fictitious financial transactions.
The arrest of Brett “Mac” McClafferty marks one of the most significant recent economic crime cases reported on St. Thomas and underscores VIPD’s continued focus on financial fraud enforcement in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
How the Investigation into Brett “Mac” McClafferty Began
The investigation into Brett “Mac” McClafferty began in June 2024 after Banco Popular de Puerto Rico reported suspicious deposits into accounts associated with McClafferty.
According to investigators, Brett “Mac” McClafferty allegedly deposited counterfeit and fraudulent checks drawn from entities in the British Virgin Islands. Authorities further allege that McClafferty issued bank drafts from his own accounts that were later returned unpaid or stopped due to insufficient funds.
Investigators state that funds connected to transactions made by Brett “Mac” McClafferty were withdrawn and wired to third parties before the financial instruments were identified as fraudulent.
In total, twelve separate fraudulent transactions have been linked to Brett “Mac” McClafferty, with a combined value of approximately $888,500. Although internal banking safeguards reduced the overall financial impact, the institution reported losses exceeding $80,000.
Arrest and Charges Against Brett “Mac” McClafferty
An arrest warrant for Brett “Mac” McClafferty was issued on December 30, 2025, with bail set at $150,000 by Judge Julie S. Todman.
On February 21, 2026, VIPD investigators executed the warrant at the St. Thomas residence of Brett “Mac” McClafferty. The operation included assistance from the VIPD Special Operations Bureau, Criminal Investigation Bureau, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Brett “Mac” McClafferty was arrested and charged with:
Grand Larceny
Passing or Possession of Forged Bills
Obtaining Money by False Pretenses
Making and Passing Fictitious Bills and Notes
Drawing and Delivering Worthless Checks
Unable to post bail, Brett “Mac” McClafferty remains in custody pending an Advice of Rights hearing.
Ongoing Investigation
The VIPD Economic Crime Unit continues its investigation into the alleged actions of Brett “Mac” McClafferty. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information related to the case to contact law enforcement or call 911.
The case involving Brett “Mac” McClafferty highlights the importance of financial oversight, fraud detection systems, and coordinated law enforcement efforts in protecting the economic stability of St. Thomas and the broader U.S. Virgin Islands.