Alliance Condemns Vanterpool Removal as Governor Signals
The Alliance has criticised Governor John J. Pruce’s decision to remove Jacqueline E. Vanterpool as Acting Commissioner of Police, calling the move "most unjust and unwarranted." New reporting by VINO says many observers view the timing as a sign the governor may pre-emptively reject any Police Service Commission recommendation to confirm Vanterpool as permanent commissioner.
The Alliance has strongly condemned Governor John J. Vanterpool from the role of Acting Commissioner of Police, calling the action "most unjust and unwarranted." The statement comes as the territory prepares to appoint a new Commissioner, a process that has now come under greater scrutiny.
Vanterpool, a Virgin Islander, had been publicly praised by Governor Pruce for her work leading the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force on an interim basis, and her stewardship earned recognition from residents and community leaders across the territory. In a reversal, the governor has reportedly expressed the view that Ms Vanterpool lacks the qualities needed to permanently lead the force.
According to reporting from Virgin Islands News Online (VINO), many observers see the governor’s move as a signal that he will not accept any forthcoming recommendation by the Police Service Commission (PoSC) to appoint Vanterpool to the top post permanently. That development has heightened concern about how the appointment process will be handled and whether a local candidate will be given fair consideration.
In its statement, the Alliance acknowledged Vanterpool’s contributions during a challenging period in the territory’s policing history. The group said she demonstrated professionalism, integrity and an unwavering commitment to public safety, noting her efforts to strengthen community trust, support officers and uphold law‑enforcement standards. "Her leadership during a critical period in the territory’s policing history was marked by diligence, courage, and a clear dedication to public service," the Alliance wrote, extending thanks and well wishes for her future endeavours.
The timing of the governor’s decision — coming while the appointment of a permanent Commissioner is imminent — has intensified scrutiny of the process. The Police Service Commission is constitutionally responsible for recommending candidates for the post, but the governor’s stated view on Vanterpool could influence whether the commission’s recommendation is acted upon.
VINO reports that many see the action as an early indication the governor will not follow a recommendation to confirm Vanterpool. Residents, community leaders and stakeholders have expressed concern about the wider message the decision sends to local officers and the public about opportunities for local leadership within the force.
Calls for transparency have grown louder, with community leaders urging that the criteria used to evaluate candidates be made clear to preserve public confidence in policing and ensure stability in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. As the territory awaits the naming of a permanent Commissioner, questions remain over the next steps in the appointment process and the standards being applied.
The Alliance’s statement adds a prominent local voice to debates about the future of the force and the role of local candidates in senior public service positions, while VINO’s reporting has brought fresh attention to the political context surrounding the governor’s decision.
Primary source: VINO