Crime/Police
BVI Begins Vetting of Police Officers, Reopen Search for Commissioner

The Governor of the Virgin Islands, Mr. Daniel Pruce, has announced the start of two major developments in the territory’s law enforcement framework: the formal initiation of a vetting process for all officers in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) and the reopening of the recruitment campaign for a new Commissioner of Police.
In a statement released today, April 17, Governor Pruce confirmed that legal amendments have been made to the relevant regulations and the agreement with the UK Home Office has been signed, enabling the start of police officer vetting across the force.
The process follows a recommendation made in 2022 by the Commission of Inquiry, which called for all RVIPF officers to undergo background vetting. According to the Governor, while the Police Service Commission (PoSC) has not yet reached the point of engaging with the Home Office vetting team, preparations are ongoing and collaboration with the PoSC will continue.
The vetting process will now move forward under the updated regulations, with a stated goal of vetting all serving officers by the autumn. Once completed, this will mark the first time the RVIPF is fully vetted.
The Governor clarified that police vetting is standard in the UK and other jurisdictions, intended to support professional conduct and enhance interagency cooperation. The initiative is also part of fulfilling a key recommendation from the Commission of Inquiry.
Governor Pruce also confirmed that the recruitment process for the next Commissioner of Police has resumed. The previous campaign was suspended in late 2024, pending the release of the second volume of the HMICFRS Law Enforcement Review. That document provided updated guidance on the qualifications and leadership capabilities required for the post.
A new person specification has been developed, and applications are now being accepted. According to the Governor, the role will require extensive policing experience and the capacity to lead the RVIPF through a period of change and development.
The recruitment process is being led by the Police Service Commission in coordination with the Deputy Governor and the central human resources team. The target is to have a new Commissioner appointed and in post by the autumn.
Governor Pruce noted the importance of cooperation among law enforcement agencies, government partners, and the community. He also acknowledged the continued work of current RVIPF officers during the ongoing reform processes.
Both initiatives—police vetting and the Commissioner recruitment—are intended to strengthen the operational framework of the RVIPF in accordance with local regulations and external review recommendations.
Crime/Police
Deputy Commissioner Confirms 17 Gun Robberies, Two Fatalities in 2025

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has reported a sharp rise in gun-related incidents in early 2025, with a disturbing increase in violent crime targeting public establishments. Among these crimes is the fatal shooting of Nyron Erickson, a West End resident, on May 10, a case currently under active investigation.
According to Deputy Commissioner Kendrick Davis, during a press conference held on May 16, the number of robberies involving firearms increased dramatically between January and April 2025 compared to the same period last year. “From January to April 2024, there were six robberies, three of which involved guns. In the same period this year, we have recorded 19 robberies, 17 of them involving firearms,” Davis stated during the briefing.
Police officials note that offenders appear to be targeting bars, pubs, and other establishments that handle cash and valuables. “Their interest seems to be focused on cash and jewelry worn by patrons,” Davis said.
The fatal shooting of Mr. Erickson marks one of two deadly firearm incidents in the territory this year. The first occurred on January 15, when Quentin Noel of Personal Estate was killed. In the case of Mr. Erickson, police have identified and issued a bulletin for a suspect, John Emmanuel, also known by aliases including Brent Danglade and “Small Brent.” He is wanted in connection with the May 10 shooting.
“We believe that, aside from being of interest to the investigation, this suspect poses an ongoing threat to public safety,” Deputy Commissioner Davis emphasised. Authorities are actively seeking public assistance in locating Mr. Emmanuel, who is believed to be in the territory.
The RVIPF has responded to the surge in gun violence by increasing patrols and implementing targeted operations. Since January, nine firearms and nearly 400 rounds of ammunition have been recovered, with several arrests made in connection with these incidents.
Deputy Commissioner Davis concluded by urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement. “If you see something, say something,” he advised. “Every bit of information is important and could be the key to solving these serious matters.”
The investigation into the shooting of Nyron Erickson remains ongoing. Authorities have not released further details to avoid compromising active inquiries.
For those with information, the police have provided several contact numbers, including an anonymous tip line through Crime Stoppers.
Contact information for tips:
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Intelligence Unit: 284-368-9339
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Crime Stoppers (anonymous): 808-477-TIPS or 284-800-877-8477
Crime/Police
Manhunt Underway for ‘Small Brent’ in Nyron Erickson Murder Case

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has intensified its search for a suspect known as “Small Brent,” wanted for questioning in connection with the murder of Nyron Erickson.
Authorities released additional images of the suspect, emphasising distinctive tattoos that could aid in his identification. The RVIPF has warned that Small Brent is considered armed and extremely dangerous, urging the public not to approach him under any circumstances.
Those with information on his whereabouts are encouraged to contact the RVIPF at 368-9339, 311, or submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 or (284) 800-8477.
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Crime/Police
Police Seek Public’s Help in Locating Armed and Dangerous Fugitive Known as ‘Small Brent’
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is seeking public assistance in locating a fugitive known as “Small Brent,” who is considered armed and extremely dangerous.
The suspect, identified as John Dawn Emmanuel, is wanted for questioning in connection with a recent murder in the British Virgin Islands. Police believe Emmanuel also has ties to violent crimes in Trinidad and Tobago, including kidnapping, extortion, and multiple murders, making him a significant threat to public safety.
Authorities warn that Emmanuel may still be using a previous alias, Brent Dain Danglade, and could have access to identification or travel documents under that name.
In a statement, the RVIPF cautioned, “Anyone found to be harboring, facilitating, or assisting this suspect will face the full force of the law.”
Residents are urged to secure their homes, vehicles, and boats to prevent this individual from using their property as a means of escape or concealment.
The RVIPF continues to work closely with regional and international law enforcement partners to locate and apprehend Emmanuel.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or (284) 800-8477 from overseas.
“Your safety is our priority,” the statement added. “Please allow trained law enforcement officers to handle the situation.”
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