Minister of State for Europe, North America and UK Overseas Territories, Stephen J. Doughty has said he remains deeply concerned about a number of issues identified in policing and customs, including the urgent need for the vetting of law enforcement officers to be completed, and has called for more funding for law enforcement agencies. Photo: HM Customs/Facebook

The Minister of State for Europe, North America and UK Overseas Territories, Stephen J. Doughty, left, seen here with Premier Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), shared his concerns with the Premier in a letter on September 22, 2025. Photo: GIS/File

The vetting of law enforcement officers, which is being pushed by the Governor, has been challenged in the High Court. Photo: Facebook/File

These concerns were conveyed to Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) in a letter from Hon Doughty dated September 22, 2025.

The UK Minister reminded the Premier of their meeting in July, in which they discussed shared concerns over the security situation in the Territory and the findings of the comprehensive review of law enforcement agencies conducted by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire Rescue Services (HMICFRS).

Vetting

"I remain deeply concerned about a number of issues identified in policing and customs, some of which I noted during my visit [in November 2024], and we discussed the critical importance of urgent completion of vetting processes among many other changes that are required to keep the people of the Virgin Islands safe and to combat serious and organised crime that also impacts on the United Kingdom, the region and our partners."

Hon Doughty said he will remain particularly focused on these concerns and stand ready to work with the Premier, the Governor and his colleagues in relevant UK Ministries and agencies in that endeavour.

It should be noted that the vetting of law enforcement officers has been challenged in the High Court and an injunction was issued on August 11, 2025, by Acting Justice Akilah Anderson, and reissued August 25, 2025, preventing the Commissioner of Police, the Police Service Commission or any agents from initiating disciplinary or criminal proceedings against current members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) and Auxiliary Force for failing to comply with specific vetting requirements.

These include submitting prescribed vetting forms, third-party consent forms for financial disclosures, and written updates on changes to previously submitted information.

The temporary halt to certain provisions of the Police (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, came following a legal challenge by Sean A. McCall, Chairman of the Police Welfare Association (PWA), against Governor Daniel Pruce.

The matter has even led to a fight between the Governor and the Acting Police Commissioner, with the Governor threatening disciplinary action against the Acting Police Commissioner.

'Positive approach'

The UK Member of Parliament also said he appreciates the "positive approach" the Premier and the Governor have taken to discussions around its recommendations and the more collegial tone engendered during discussions with Members of the House of Assembly.

"I again emphasise that it is vitally important that law enforcement agencies are properly funded through the annual budget process, to ensure they are given the proper tools and resources to do their job."

It should be noted that the UK, although pressuring the Premier to provide more funding for law enforcement agencies, do not provide any money to the Virgin Islands' annual budget.