Four Firearms and 302 Ammunition Rounds Seized by RVIPF in First Six Weeks of 2025

In the first six weeks of 2025, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF)  recovered four firearms and a total of 302 rounds of ammunition through various operations. Notably, one of the recovered firearms was a modified pistol, classified as a prohibited weapon due to its ability to discharge multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger.

As a result of these efforts, ten individuals have been charged in connection with the recoveries. Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool emphasized the serious legal implications for those who facilitate or permit the presence of illegal firearms or ammunition on their property or in their vehicles.

Under the Firearm Act, any firearms discovered on private property are presumed to belong to the occupants, who are then required to provide evidence to the contrary. This legal standard underpins the arrest and subsequent charges of all individuals present in such cases. A similar provision exists under the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act, which governs the possession of controlled substances.

“The RVIPF remains committed to removing illegal firearms from our streets,” Acting Commissioner Vanterpool stated. “We encourage the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The consequences of neglecting such illegal actions can be severe and far-reaching.”

The RVIPF continues to stress the importance of community cooperation in addressing illegal activities and urges residents to remain aware of the significant legal risks associated with firearm and drug violations.

Anyone with information regarding illegal firearms or suspicious activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or, for international callers, at (284) 800-8477. Additionally, tips may be directed to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.

This image is for representation purposes only and does not depict the full quantity of ammunition seized.