Word reaching our news centre from officers at His Majesty’s Prison at Balsam Ghut is that Superintendent of Prison Jay Kendall has left his post and the Virgin Islands. Photo: HMP/File

Mr Jay Kendall, a UK national, was chosen in October 2023 for the job of Superintendent of Prison over qualified Virgin Islanders. Photo: Internet Source

Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) confirmed to our newsroom that the Superintendent of Prison, Mr Jay Kendall, has left his post and the Territory. Photo: GIS

Mr. Kendall, a UK national, was chosen in October 2023 for the job by a British appointed Governor over many qualified Virgin Islanders. It is believed that Mr Kendall and a former male Prison Officer may have taken up a post in another colony: Anguilla.

Got away without discipline

It was in October 2025 that two inmates, Jose Almestica (37) and John Burgos (27) escaped from HM Prison at Balsam Ghut under the watch of Mr Kendall. However, he faced no disciplinary action, but instead local prison officers were sent on leave and investigated. As of today Saturday, November 7, 2026, the two inmates are still at large, in other words, have not been recaptured.

Minister for Health and Social Development Hon Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) confirmed to our newsroom that the Superintendent, Mr Kendall, has left his post and the Territory. Hon Wheatley did not offer any more details.

Mr. Kendall also sent around a memorandum to his staff about his departure. Government has not made any official announcement on who is the new acting Superintendent.