Crime/Police
Marine Unit Training and Officer Vetting Among RVIPF’s 2025 Priorities
Acting Commissioner and Governor Outline Key Initiatives and Vision for the Year Ahead
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) convened its first Force Meeting of 2025 under the leadership of Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool. The meeting, attended by His Excellency the Governor and members of the Police Service Commission, served as a platform to highlight achievements from the past year and unveil strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the Force’s capabilities and public trust.
His Excellency the Governor announced a robust package of support from the United Kingdom, set to begin in February, that underscores a long-term commitment to bolstering the RVIPF. Two senior UK officers will be deployed to assist in critical areas, including organisational priorities and completing Volume 2 of His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) law review recommendations.
“These officers will provide vital expertise to support the Force’s ongoing transformation,” the Governor stated. He emphasised that their work will be directly aligned with the RVIPF’s leadership under Acting Commissioner Vanterpool.
Additional measures include specialised training and equipment upgrades for the Marine Unit, mentoring for the Intelligence Department, and the introduction of comprehensive vetting processes across law enforcement agencies following formal agreements.
The Governor also provided updates on the upcoming selection process for a permanent Commissioner of Police, which is expected to begin in the latter half of 2025 and could span six months.
Acting Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool used the opportunity to acknowledge the dedication of RVIPF officers throughout 2024, noting progress in technology, infrastructure, and operational efficiency.
“Our officers worked tirelessly last year, and their efforts have laid a strong foundation for continued success,” Vanterpool said.
She announced several key milestones, including the confirmation of officers to the Permanent and Pensionable establishment and long-awaited promotions from Sergeants to Chief Inspectors.
Reiterating her commitment to accountability, the Acting Commissioner declared, “Under my leadership, any officer caught breaking the law will be prosecuted to the fullest extent.” She also emphasized a renewed focus on community engagement, promising increased visibility across all levels of the Force.
The meeting reinforced the RVIPF’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability. Plans for 2025 include strengthening partnerships with local, regional, and international stakeholders to address evolving challenges and build trust with the public.
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.
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