The search continues for a new Commissioner of Police in the Virgin Islands, after local Jacqueline E. Vanterpool was blocked by United Kingdom-appointed Governor Daniel Pruce. Photo: VINO

 The Government of the Virgin Islands has reopened applications for the position of Commissioner of Police for the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF), after the previous recruitment process ended without an appointment. Photo: Facebook

Interim Acting Commissioner Richard Ullger, who is overseeing the force until a new Commissioner is selected, told the Talking Points radio programme on Monday, September 14, 2026, that the force already has officers with clear potential. “There is talent in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. You can’t hide that at all,” he said, adding that he had worked with several “gifted” officers. Photo: Internet Source

Interim Acting Commissioner Richard Ullger, who is overseeing the force until a new Commissioner is selected, told the Talking Points radio programme on Monday, September 14, 2026, that the force already has officers with clear potential. “There is talent in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. You can’t hide that at all,” he said, adding that he had worked with several “gifted” officers.

He stressed, however, that further development is still required before any local officer is ready to lead the organisation. “There is some development that is required as we move forward,” Ullger said, noting the force would be stronger with additional support. He urged officers to take ownership of their career progression, “Hopefully, in the coming years, if our officers continue with their own personal development plans and aim high strategically, there is nothing to say why someone from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force can’t be at the helm of this organisation.”

Richard Ullger says his role is temporary 

Ullger also confirmed he is in the role on a temporary basis and expects the recruitment process to be rigorous. “I am here until the new Commissioner of Police is selected, which I hope will be soon,” he said. The successful candidate, he added, must be capable of “developing the organisation towards 21st-century policing.”

Gov't inviting applicants 

In May, Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline E. Vanterpool had emerged as the leading candidate from within the RVIPF, but the Governor did not confirm her appointment and instead reverted her to her substantive post as Deputy Commissioner. 

The decision sparked debate, with some arguing the Governor violated the Constitution by not accepting the Commission’s recommendation, while others supported a fresh, open search for the territory’s top police job. 

The renewed advertisement signals that the Government is again inviting applications from both internal and external candidates to fill the Commissioner of Police position.

According to the announcement, applicants have until October 12, 2026, to apply.