Wheatley, Rymer Back Protest Over Vanterpool
Premier Dr. Natalio Wheatley and Minister Shereen Flax-Charles Rymer have publicly expressed support for planned protests at the Governor's House following Governor Pruce’s decision on Acting Commissioner of Police (Ag CoP) Diana Vanterpool. The governor announced the decision on November 7, 2025, and instructed Ms Vanterpool to revert to Deputy Commissioner effective November 18; a protest is scheduled for November 10.
Shereen Rymer have signalled public support for residents planning to protest Governor Pruce’s recent decision affecting Acting Commissioner of Police Diana Vanterpool. Governor Pruce’s action — made public on Thursday, November 7, 2025 — requires Ms Vanterpool to return to her substantive post as Deputy Commissioner of Police effective November 18, 2025.
In the hours after the announcement, community members called for a demonstration at the Governor’s House on Monday, November 10, to show solidarity with Ms Vanterpool and register displeasure with the governor’s move. At a November 7 press briefing, reporters asked whether the local government would join the planned protest. “It’s not something that I have discussed with the government as yet, but I certainly have expressed my very clear position on the matter, and I would be very supportive of the people expressing their constitutional and democratic right to oppose that decision,” Premier Wheatley said.
Rymer was more forthright in expressing solidarity with protesters. “I just want the people of the Territory to know that we stand with you,” she said, adding that the decision “definitely was unfair.” She acknowledged the governor’s constitutional authority under Section 97, and emphasised that members of the National Security Council were informed of the governor’s action on November 5.
Rymer reminded the public that the NSC serves in an advisory role and that the governor is empowered to make the final decision. Governor Pruce has also named a nominee for Commissioner of Police: former Royal Gibraltar Police Commissioner Richard Ullger, a United Kingdom national.
The nomination of an overseas candidate and the reassignment of Ms Vanterpool have fuelled concerns among residents about local leadership of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force and the process by which policing decisions are taken. The unfolding situation places local government, the governor’s office and the community at a crossroads.
For many residents the matter raises questions of local accountability, confidence in police leadership, and the proper channels for dispute and appointment. Officials have urged that any demonstrations remain peaceful and lawful; organisers and attendees are reminded to monitor official channels for updates and safety information.
This report draws on coverage by Virgin Islands News Online and public statements made by elected officials and the governor’s office.
Primary source: VINO