Calls to Support Jackie Vanterpool
Social commentator Claude O. Skelton-Cline has publicly criticised Governor Daniel Pruce’s decision to remove Jacqueline E. Vanterpool as Acting Commissioner of Police, calling her an "inconvenient presence" for the United Kingdom. A march from the Road Town Police Station to the Office of the Governor and a petition delivery were planned in response, with supporters urging Virgin Islanders to stand up for Vanterpool and for women generally.
Skelton-Cline used his ZBVI 780 AM radio programme, Honestly Speaking, on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, to condemn Governor Daniel Pruce’s decision to remove Jacqueline E. Vanterpool as Acting Commissioner of Police, saying the move reflected outside influence and that Vanterpool had become "an inconvenient presence." The commentator urged residents to support Vanterpool and to defend women in public life.
On air, Skelton-Cline argued, "I believe this is the official arm of the United Kingdom. They have things they want to do, and Jackie is an inconvenient presence." He praised Vanterpool’s quiet professionalism and knowledge of the rules, saying, "Jackie stands up. Jackie knows the rules and regulations we are governed by.
She takes her position quietly, with strength and honour, and because they can't navigate and work through that and with that, they're pushing her out." Skelton-Cline, who framed his comments in personal and community terms, reminded listeners that Vanterpool is "somebody's daughter" from Virgin Gorda and appealed to people’s empathy: "Sooner or later, there may be some time in your life, or in the life of your daughter, or in the life of your son, that you will need somebody to speak up on their behalf without explanation." He described her record and life among BVI residents as exemplary and called on the public to speak on her behalf.
In response to the removal, organisers planned a march from the Road Town Police Station to the Office of the Governor for the afternoon of November 11, where participants intended to deliver a signed petition to Governor Pruce. The demonstration reflects broader public concern about leadership changes at the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and questions over external influence on local appointments.
The role of Acting Commissioner of Police carries considerable responsibility for public safety and community trust across the islands. For many residents, changes in that post are closely watched because they can affect policing priorities, morale within the force, and relations between police leadership and the communities they serve.
As of the broadcast there was no public comment from Governor Pruce’s office included in Skelton-Cline’s remarks. The planned march and petition signal active civic engagement in the territory, and community groups say they will continue to demand transparency and accountability regarding any decisions that affect local leadership.
This report is based on remarks made on ZBVI’s Honestly Speaking programme and coverage by Virgin Islands News Online.
Primary source: VINO