Governor Dodges Claims Over Police Removal
Governor Daniel Pruce declined to answer questions about reports he sought to remove Acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool, saying his dealings with senior officials are confidential. His comments come amid reported tensions in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and a sharp rise in violent crime this year.
Governor Daniel Pruce has declined to confirm or deny reports that he attempted to remove Acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool, saying matters with senior colleagues are handled confidentially. Speaking at a press conference at Government House on November 4, Pruce was asked directly about allegations that he had sought Vanterpool’s removal.
He said he does not comment in detail on relationships with senior staff in the security or public sector, citing a “basic principle of confidentiality” that applies to all personnel. “That’s just a basic principle of confidentiality, which extends to all staff,” Pruce told reporters.
Pressed further on whether he intended to remove Vanterpool, the Governor said he would not “speculate” or discuss “matters which are part of his professional relationship with senior colleagues.” Pruce stressed that he works closely with law enforcement and views the senior police team, including the acting commissioner, as an important partner in fulfilling his constitutional duties.
When asked later if he still believed Vanterpool was doing a “good job”, he again declined to give a direct assessment, saying he does not “provide a running commentary on how senior colleagues are performing.” Vanterpool has been acting as Commissioner since early 2024 and has led the force through a period of high-profile operations as the territory confronts an increase in violent crime, including multiple shootings and armed robberies this year.
Police statistics cited by officials show a 58 per cent rise in robberies and an overall increase in violent crime between January and September 2025. The Governor also clarified the appointment process for a substantive Commissioner of Police, saying the Police Service Commission manages the recruitment and makes the recommendation. “Final recommendation comes to me, but I am not in any way involved in the process that leads to that recommendation,” he said, adding that his constitutional role allows only limited discretion once advice is submitted.
He said he expects a recommendation “imminently.” The exchange underscores public interest in stability and leadership of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force at a time when residents are concerned about safety. For the BVI community, the outcome of the Police Service Commission’s process and clarity from officials will be key to maintaining public confidence in policing during a period of rising crime and operational pressure on the force.
Primary source: BVI News