Vanterpool: My Record Speaks For Itself
Assistant Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool has been reverted to her substantive role as Deputy Commissioner after more than a year serving as Acting Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. In a public statement she defended her tenure, pointed to documented improvements in policing, and pledged continued service amid ongoing debate over a new acting appointment and recent Road Town protests.
Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool has publicly responded to her recent reversion from the role of Acting Commissioner of Police, saying her "record over the past year speaks clearly for itself." Vanterpool confirmed she has returned to her substantive post after more than a year leading the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) in an acting capacity.
In a statement to the public, Vanterpool said she served with "dedication and a strong sense of duty," including periods when there were no deputies or assistant commissioners in place. She highlighted what she described as tangible gains under her leadership: improvements in operations, crime reduction efforts, community engagement and overall professionalism within the Force. "The achievements are well documented, and the improvements within the Force... are already being seen and felt," she said, thanking colleagues and the wider Virgin Islands community for their encouragement and support.
Vanterpool also reaffirmed her commitment to uphold high standards of policing and to support the men and women of the RVIPF. Her reversion follows an announcement by Governor Daniel Pruce that he intends to appoint a new Acting Commissioner, citing the need for stability and experience in leading law enforcement.
That decision has prompted public debate across the territory and sparked a week-long protest in Road Town. Elected officials and other prominent community members have expressed concern and called for clarity about leadership changes at the RVIPF. Vanterpool made history as the first woman to act as Commissioner of Police in the Virgin Islands.
During her tenure she led several initiatives aimed at improving community relations and tackling serious crime — priorities that remain central to public safety in the Territory. As the Governor moves toward appointing a new Acting Commissioner, residents and civic leaders have stressed the importance of continuity, transparent decision-making and a smooth transition to maintain momentum on crime reduction and community policing efforts.
Vanterpool closed her statement with an expression of faith and patriotism: "Thank you and may God continue to guide and protect the Virgin Islands."
Primary source: BVI News