Crime/Police
Governor Pruce Suspends RVIPF Commissioner Recruitment, Citing Evolving Security Needs
Governor Daniel Pruce has announced the suspension of the recruitment process for a new Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), citing the changing and increasingly complex security challenges facing the Territory. Governor Pruce explained that this decision would allow the RVIPF to refine its leadership requirements to better meet these demands.
“We began the recruitment process earlier this year, aiming to have a new Commissioner in place by the end of November,” Pruce stated. “However, after careful consideration, I have decided to suspend that process.”
The decision will create a temporary leadership gap following the conclusion of Commissioner Mark Collins’ contract next month. Governor Pruce indicated that he will rely on the senior leadership team within the RVIPF to ensure continuity during the interim period. Additionally, he plans to “seek additional reinforcements at the senior level” to support the team through this transition.
Governor Daniel Pruce
In explaining his decision, Governor Pruce referred to an ongoing law enforcement review conducted by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire, and Rescue Services. The review’s first volume has already delivered 138 recommendations, many of which impact the RVIPF, with further recommendations expected in a second volume due in the coming months. “These recommendations will shape the future of the RVIPF for years to come,” Pruce noted.
The evolving nature of the Territory’s security needs has shifted the qualities now required for the next Commissioner, Pruce explained. “We need someone who can lead a mission-critical organisation through a complex strategic transformation while delivering improved operational outcomes,” he said. “The assessments have shown that the qualities required in this role differ from those we initially sought.”
As a result, the recruitment process will be redefined with updated qualifications and skills before relaunching. “I intend to begin the new process as soon as possible,” Pruce added, thanking those who had already applied and inviting them to reapply under the new specifications.
This announcement comes as the RVIPF and other law enforcement agencies confront increasing security challenges across the Territory. “The police are at the centre of our security efforts,” Pruce said, describing the appointment of a new Commissioner as “likely the single most important security decision I will make during my tenure as Governor.”
Governor Pruce concluded with a direct message to RVIPF officers, recognising their dedication and commitment. “You are a remarkable body of committed men and women who deserve outstanding leadership. I owe it to you, and to all the people of the Virgin Islands, to ensure I get it right,” he affirmed.
Sources report that Deputy Commissioners Jacqueline Vanterpool and St. Clair Amory were among those who applied for the position.
Crime/Police
Multiple Arrests Made for Offenses Ranging from Criminal Damage to Immigration Violations
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a series of arrests across the territory, highlighting a diverse range of criminal charges as law enforcement continues to crack down on illegal activities.
Tyler Harrigan, 26, of North Sound, Virgin Gorda, was charged with criminal damage, armed with an offensive weapon, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Authorities have not disclosed specific details of the incident leading to the charges.
In a separate case, Kelvin Eleuthere, 27, of Soper’s Hole, West End, was arrested on November 15 and charged with harboring a person, a serious offense under local law.
Also on November 15, Shamar John, 47, was charged for overstaying his landing permit, a violation of immigration regulations.
Meanwhile, on November 11, Kelliel Mala, 26, of the US Virgin Islands, was charged with disorderly conduct following an altercation.
Additionally, a 12-year-old minor was charged with indecent language on November 22.
Each of the accused individuals is scheduled to face court proceedings in the coming months.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with various assault incidents, including attacks on civilians and law enforcement officers.
On November 1, Julian Peters of Free Bottom was arrested and charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He was granted bail of $5,000 and is scheduled to appear in court on December 17. Later in the month, on November 29, police arrested Tresley Chewitt, 41, of Windy Hill, Virgin Gorda, for a separate assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Chewitt was granted bail of $10,000 and will appear in court on January 20, 2025.
In incidents involving law enforcement, Ernest Williams, 31, of Virgin Gorda, and Shem Letteen, 53, of East End, were both arrested on November 23 for assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and obstruction. Both men were granted bail of $3,000 and are expected to appear in court on January 16, 2025.
Authorities continue to encourage the public to cooperate with investigations and report any incidents of violence or threats to public safety.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has arrested several individuals in connection with firearm and explosives offenses in a series of incidents spanning November.
On November 29, officers arrested Luiz Guerra Bethelmy, 45, of Great Mountain, and Dania Livari Castello. Both face charges of keeping a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
Earlier in the month, on November 17, police apprehended 20-year-old Daniel Maduro of Long Bush. Maduro was charged with carrying a firearm without a license and unlawful possession of explosives.
In a separate incident on November 15, authorities arrested Richard Baronville, 32, of Long Bush, and Kahlim Smith, 24, of Nottingham Estate. Both men face charges of possession of a prohibited firearm and unlawful possession of explosives.
Most recently, on November 30, police charged Keanus Smart, 18, of Free Bottom, with possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offense and unlawful possession of explosives.
The RVIPF is urging members of the public to report any suspicious activity.
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