Report Domestic Violence on Victims' Behalf
Local authorities and advocates are urging residents to report suspected domestic violence even if the victim does not make a complaint. Police and counsellors say bystanders — neighbours, friends or family — can file reports on behalf of victims and that silence can allow abuse to escalate.
Local leaders are urging people in the British Virgin Islands to speak up when they suspect domestic abuse, even if the person affected has not reported it themselves. The message came during a recent panel hosted by Mrs BVI 2024 Rhonda Victor-Pinnock, who also serves as an ambassador for Women in Need (WIN) BVI.
Panelists included Officer Tresan Sharpe of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) Family and Juvenile Unit and psychotherapist Dr Albert Thompkins. "To ignore it is worse than actually even saying something," Officer Sharpe told the panel. "In domestic violence, when you see something, say something." She emphasised that reports can come from anyone — neighbours, friends or family — and that concerned community members may report on someone else's behalf.
Sharpe also highlighted why many victims stay silent. "Sometimes abusers will say, 'I know the police, and you have friends in high places,' and that deters people from speaking up," she said. "But when they actually come in and talk to the police, they realise they do have a fighting chance of getting out of the situation." Panelists discussed cultural barriers that can make bystanders hesitate.
With many nationalities and traditions represented in the BVI, Victor-Pinnock asked where people should draw the line when harmful behaviour is seen as "normal" in another culture. Dr Thompkins responded that culture cannot be used to justify harm. "Not all aspects of culture are good," he said. "If its culture thats hurting you and harming you, maybe consider changing that part of the culture." Domestic violence remains a persistent concern locally.
Police continue to receive dozens of reports each year, but advocates say the real number is likely higher because fear, stigma and dependence keep many victims silent. Community intervention, they say, can be a crucial first step toward safety. Panelists urged practical actions for residents: check in with people you suspect may be at risk, share information about local support services, and report concerns to the RVIPF Family and Juvenile Unit or community organisations such as WIN BVI.
At the same time, they stressed the importance of respecting victims rights and decisions and of prioritising safety when intervening. As the panel closed, the clear call to the BVI community was simple: notice, act and connect people to help. Remaining silent, officials say, can allow abuse to worsen; speaking up can save lives.
Primary source: BVI News