ST. CROIX — Baci Duty Free is facing eviction after 25 years in downtown Christiansted for allegedly owing $114,600 in unpaid rent, late fees, and interest, according to a complaint filed in Superior Court.
The Christiansted Restoration Corporation, which owns the building, filed the complaint on August 20 through attorney Mally Rutherford, of McChain Hamm & Associates LLP. The suit seeks to evict Bittans Trading Company Ltd., doing business as Baci Duty Free — a jewelry store that also sells cigars and alcohol.
Bittan Bonta, in her most recent lease agreement, leased the property at the corner of Queen Cross and Strand streets from March 1, 2024 to February 28. She subsequently agreed to a settlement, payment plan, and lease renewal through August 31, according to the complaint.
Bonta, while entering her shop today, denied the claim that she owes rent.
“I don’t know nothing about it,” she said.
However, court documents show that Bonta signed the settlement, payment plan, and lease renewal agreement on March 19, which became effective March 1.
On July 15, Bonta was personally served with a 30-day notice to quit in her capacity as owner of — and guarantor for — defendant. Despite demands for payment, the complaint alleges neither Bonta nor the company has paid the $114,600 owed to CRC.
Bonta insisted she has never missed a rent payment during her 25 years in business.
“This is a problem I have never had in my whole life,” she said.
The complaint alleges that Bonta is in default under the March 1 agreement for failing to pay both rent and other amounts due. Specifically, she allegedly owes $26,400 in unpaid rent from March, $73,200 under the lease renewal agreement, and $15,000 in collection expenses — totaling $114,600.
Under the lease terms, failure to pay rent within 30 days is considered a default and grounds for eviction.
CRC also asserts that Baci granted it a lien and security interest in all personal property located on the premises — including jewelry, cigars, alcohol, and display cases — as collateral for rent and other payments. As such, none of the business's property may be removed.
CRC is seeking a judgment declaring Baci Duty Free to be in unlawful possession of the property and affirming CRC’s right to take possession. The corporation also seeks recovery of legal costs, attorney’s fees, and any other relief the court deems appropriate.
