Acting Police Commissioner getting results – Premier

Acting Police Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool has earned high praise from Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley for her leadership in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), with the Premier pointing to tangible results since her appointment.

During a government press conference on 9 May, Dr Wheatley acknowledged a rise in police visibility and crime-fighting efforts under Vanterpool’s command.

“I’ve been very impressed with the work that Acting Commissioner Vanterpool has done since she took the helm,” Premier Wheatley stated. “They’ve had a number of recoveries of weapons. You’ve seen a greater presence of police out on the streets.”

He also commended her coordination during large gatherings and her public engagement, particularly during cruise ship visits, which require additional policing. “

She’s been getting some results,” Dr Wheatley asserted.

Vanterpool, who stepped into the acting commissioner role in 2023, is reportedly the subject of a petition lobbying for her permanent appointment. While Premier Wheatley did not comment on her candidacy, he reaffirmed the importance of homegrown leadership within the police force.

“I made it very clear in the House of Assembly that I don’t think it’s an effective strategy to always have persons come from the outside,” he explained. “You have persons who come to the Virgin Islands, get lots of training opportunities, and then they leave.”