The Police Service Commission (PSC) is said to be deliberating on Governor Daniel Pruce’s recommendation to appoint former Gibraltar Police Commissioner Richard Alger as interim Acting Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).
The move was revealed during the Governor’s appearance on the radio programme Talking Points on Monday, November 10.
A Strategic Response to a Changing Policing Landscape Governor Pruce said Alger’s nomination was made in direct response to the “evolving and increasingly complex challenges” facing the police force.
“The appointment of an interim leader with Alger’s experience is aimed at strengthening the resilience and operational effectiveness of the police force,” — Governor Daniel Pruce
He noted, however, that his recommendation is not yet final and remains subject to the advice of the Police Service Commission, as required under the Virgin Islands Constitution. “I await the advice of the Police Service Commission before any final decision is made,” the Governor added, explaining that another candidate could be selected depending on the PSC’s conclusion.
Addressing Questions Over Alger’s Background Richard Alger, who served as Commissioner of Police in Gibraltar and has extensive overseas policing experience, has faced renewed public scrutiny following media reports of past allegations during his tenure there.
Governor Pruce addressed those reports directly, clarifying that the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA) had investigated the matter and found no evidence of wrongdoing.
“The National Crime Agency review confirmed that Mr. Alger neither disclosed information nor acted discreditably,” — Governor Pruce
Transition Within the Force
The recommendation comes as current Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool prepares to return to her substantive post as Deputy Commissioner of Police on November 18, 2025.
Governor Pruce praised Vanterpool’s service, describing her as a “dedicated officer with a long and distinguished career”, while explaining that the prolonged period of acting leadership had created internal strain within the RVIPF.
“In any complex organization, prolonged acting leadership affects resilience and smooth functioning,” he noted.
Temporary Role, UK-Funded Support
The interim position is expected to last only a few months and will be fully funded by the United Kingdom, providing financial flexibility to strengthen the senior leadership team.
Governor Pruce said the funding will “create headroom within the RVIPF budget” to enhance resilience and continuity at the top levels of the force.
Meanwhile, the process to select a permanent Commissioner of Police continues separately. The PSC’s recommendation for that role has already been submitted to the National Security Council (NSC) for review before a final decision is made.
Commitment to Security and Stability Governor Pruce reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the police force remains well-positioned to meet the growing security needs of the territory.
“These decisions are made to ensure the police force is equipped to meet the challenges ahead and maintain the safety and security of everyone in the Virgin Islands,” — Governor Daniel Pruce
Who is Richard Alger?
Richard Alger is a seasoned law enforcement professional who most recently served as Commissioner of Police in Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory.
During his tenure, Alger oversaw several major security operations and worked closely with UK and international agencies on organized crime and border security initiatives.
Although his name appeared in media reports linked to allegations made during a court case in Gibraltar, the UK’s National Crime Agency later cleared him of any wrongdoing, stating that no evidence supported the claims.
If endorsed by the PSC, Alger would serve as interim Acting Commissioner of the RVIPF, helping to guide the force through its ongoing transition and strengthening its operational readiness while the search for a permanent Commissioner continues.
