Crowd Protests Demotion of Acting CoP
Residents gathered to protest Governor Daniel Pruce's decision to return Acting Commissioner Jacqueline E. Vanterpool to her former role as Deputy Commissioner after she applied for and interviewed for the Commissioner's post. Organisers and some government ministers voiced concern about the move and called for transparency on the decision to nominate a UK national instead.
Hundreds of residents gathered for a protest titled "Hands off our Commissioner" after Governor Daniel Pruce opted not to confirm Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool in the permanent post and instead named United Kingdom national Richard Ullger as his nominee for Commissioner of Police.
The demonstration was timed to begin at 3:30 PM to allow public servants to attend. Ms Vanterpool had served as Acting Commissioner for just over a year, submitted an application for the permanent role and participated in the interview process. Rather than confirming her in the role, the Governor moved her back to the position of Deputy Commissioner, prompting those who support her leadership to mobilise.
Organisers of the protest said the decision undermines local leadership and raises questions about transparency in the appointment process. Cline, one of the organisers, told Virgin Islands News Online that Ms Vanterpool has demonstrated she can lead the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force during her tenure as Acting Commissioner. "To remove her without cause or without a reason to her or the public or to the government, I believe that is something we should stand up against," he said.
The public show of support also received backing from senior elected officials. Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley and Minister for Communications and Works Hon Kye M. Rymer publicly voiced support for the community gathering. Their comments underline the political sensitivity of the decision and the importance many in the Territory place on the role of the Commissioner.
For many residents the issue goes beyond an individual appointment. The Commissioner of Police is the most senior officer responsible for public safety and the day-to-day leadership of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force; decisions about who fills that role can affect public confidence, policing priorities and the relationship between the force and the community.
Some protesters expressed particular concern that the Governor nominated a UK national for the post rather than confirming a locally based Acting Commissioner who had already led the force. Virgin Islands News Online will provide updates as the situation develops. Community leaders are calling for clear explanations from the Governor's office about the selection process and for continued public engagement on the future leadership of the police force.
Primary source: VINO