Governor Orders External Prison Investigation
Governor John Pruce has commissioned a full independent external probe into the recent escape of two inmates from His Majesty’s Prison, saying the UK Ministry of Justice will help identify investigators. The two escapees, Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos, remain at large and are believed to still be in the Virgin Islands, police say.
Governor John Pruce announced on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, that he has commissioned a "full independent, external investigation" into the circumstances that led to the escape of inmates Jose Almestica and John M. Burgos from His Majesty’s Prison. "I’m able to confirm this morning that, alongside the local internal investigations into this matter with the support of the Ministry of Justice, I have commissioned a full independent, external investigation into the circumstances that led to the escape of Jose Almestica and John M.
Burgos," the Governor said at a press conference as he responded to mounting public and media pressure. The Governor said the external review will be "conducted by an outside body," and that the UK Ministry of Justice is assisting in "identifying the people" who will lead the inquiry.
No timetable for the probe was announced at the briefing. Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline E. Vanterpool has told reporters that investigators with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force are working around the clock. A report by Virgin Islands News Online on November 2 quoted her saying there was, to that date, "no indication that the fugitives have left the Virgin Islands." Both men are considered armed and dangerous, and police continue active searches and follow-up on leads.
Public anger has focused on prison management and security failures. Reports indicate that some surveillance cameras at the prison were not functioning at the time of the escape, and critics note that this is the second time Jose Almestica has escaped custody. Residents and local journalists have pressed for clear answers and accountability.
Superintendent of Prisons Jay Kendall, a UK national, remains in his post. When asked whether Kendall would be temporarily stood down during the investigation, Governor Pruce replied, "Yes, Superintendent Kendall is still on the job." The decision has revived comparisons to the 2023 review of former Police Commissioner Mark Collins, a UK national who remained in office during an external review and was ultimately cleared following an inquiry led by the Commissioner of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.
The Governor’s move to commission an independent external investigation seeks to reassure residents that the matter will be examined beyond local internal processes. For the community, the priorities are swift capture of the escapees, transparent publication of findings, and measurable steps to restore confidence in prison security and public safety.
Primary source: VINO