Crime/Police
Richard Ullger Sworn In as Interim Acting Police Commissioner
Richard Ullger was sworn in as interim acting commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force today, Nov. 19, even as a public petition supporting Acting Commissioner Jacqueline E. Vanterpool and calling for direct engagement from the governor continues to circulate across the Virgin Islands.
Ullger assumed the post following a swearing-in ceremony at Government House, Governor Daniel Pruce announced.
Governor Pruce said Ullger will lead the force while the search continues for a permanent commissioner. “I am pleased to welcome Richard Ullger as the new Interim Acting Commissioner of Police,” Pruce said, adding that Ullger’s leadership is expected to support the administration of the RVIPF during the transition.
The governor noted ongoing challenges facing the police force, including a shifting criminal landscape, internal reform needs, and the demand for resources and training aligned with modern policing standards. “These issues require strong leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with partners across the Territory,” he said.
Pruce also stated he intends to work closely with Ullger and RVIPF personnel as efforts continue to strengthen the organization. “As we continue to build a highly professional, fully vetted, and properly resourced police force—one that earns the trust and confidence of all those we serve,” he said.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
Crime/Police
Two Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
Dalfree Rodriguez De La Rosa, 22, of Hannah’s Estate, Tortola, and John Harvey, 33, of Purcell Estate, Tortola, were arrested on April 16, after officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) recovered a modified firearm, cannabis and ammunition during a stop-and-check operation in Free Bottom, police said.
According to the RVIPF, officers on patrol conducted the stop and discovered a Glock pistol, a quantity of cannabis and 13 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition. The firearm was later identified as a prohibited weapon that had been modified for fully automatic fire.
De La Rosa has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply, possession of explosives and possession of a prohibited firearm. Harvey has been charged with possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply.
Acting Commissioner Kenrick Davis, speaking on behalf of the Senior Command Team, commended the officers involved in the operation.
“Their continued professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to duty have significantly contributed to the safety and security of our community,” Davis said.
The RVIPF said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to address illegal firearms and drug-related activity across the Territory.
Six new police vehicles have been added to the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) fleet as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Territory.
The force stated that the vehicles will support policing operations by improving mobility, response times and visibility across communities in the Virgin Islands.
“These additions form part of our continued efforts to enhance operational capacity and visibility across our communities,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
The vehicles are expected to be deployed on roads throughout the Territory as they begin active patrols in support of law enforcement duties.
The RVIPF also indicated that additional vehicles are expected to arrive in the coming months, further expanding the resources available to officers.
Tarik Aaron Arrested on USVI Extradition Warrant
Civil Registry Announces Increase in U.K. Passport Fees Effective April 8
Hon. Wheatley Introduces Elections Amendment Bill in House of Assembly
-
Crime/Police6 days agoTwo Men Arrested in Free Bottom After Police Recover Modified Firearm, Drugs and Ammunition
-
Crime/Police17 hours agoTarik Aaron Arrested on USVI Extradition Warrant
-
Elections 202318 hours agoHon. Wheatley Introduces Elections Amendment Bill in House of Assembly
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoMystiq Flax Charles Wins Best Look of the Night at Style Week Event
-
Local News18 hours agoCivil Registry Announces Increase in U.K. Passport Fees Effective April 8
-
Elections 20235 days agoWalters Elected NDP Vice President as Party Finalizes Leadership Team
-
Crime/Police1 week agoSix New Police Vehicles Added to RVIPF Fleet to Strengthen Operations
-
Entertainment2 weeks agoThree Contestants Confirmed for Miss Elegantly Plus Caribbean Queen Pageant in Tortola