Prison Superintendent Jay Kendall Leaves Post
Jay Kendall, the UK-appointed Superintendent of His Majesty's Prison at Balsam Ghut, has departed his post and left the Virgin Islands. Minister for Health and Social Development Vincent O. Wheatley confirmed the exit, though government has not yet announced a replacement. Kendall's tenure was marked by controversy, including high-profile inmate escapes.
Jay Kendall, the Superintendent of His Majesty's Prison at Balsam Ghut, has officially demitted office and departed the Virgin Islands. Minister for Health and Social Development Vincent O. Wheatley confirmed the development, stating that Kendall has formally vacated his leadership role and left the Territory.
Prior to his departure, Kendall reportedly circulated a memorandum to staff members across the Balsam Ghut correctional facility informing them of his exit. Reports indicate that Kendall may be transitioning to a correctional post in Anguilla, another British Overseas Territory. The Government of the Virgin Islands has not yet released an official statement announcing who will step in as the acting Superintendent to oversee daily operations at the facility.
Kendall, a United Kingdom national, assumed the top leadership post at HM Prison in October 2023 after being appointed by the Governor. His selection generated notable public discussion and scrutiny within the Territory, raising questions among residents and local officials regarding recruitment practices and the appointment of overseas personnel over qualified Virgin Islanders for senior public sector roles.
His tenure as prison superintendent was also shadowed by significant operational and security challenges. Among the most critical incidents was the escape of two inmates, Jose Almestica, 37, and John Burgos, 27, from the Balsam Ghut facility. Following the breach, several local prison officers were placed on administrative leave pending internal investigations into security protocols, while Kendall faced no disciplinary measures.
The Ministry for Health and Social Development has not yet provided additional details regarding the immediate operational leadership at the prison or the timeline for launching a recruitment process to select a permanent successor. Further updates are expected once the government issues an official announcement.
Primary source: VINO