Governor Daniel Pruce addressed the people of the Virgin Islands on Friday, May 9, 2025. Photo:

The second volume of the law enforcement review was conducted by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), an independent United Kingdom (UK) body. Photo: Internet Source

To this end, he expressed optimism working with domestic partners to implement a comprehensive strategy to enhance law enforcement, tackle organised crime, and restore public trust in policing and criminal justice institutions domestically. 

Governor Pruce addressed the recently published second part of the Review of Law Enforcement in the VI, which he described as “an ambitious and far-reaching move back for change, with the intention of making the territory safer over the next decade and beyond”. 

Blueprint for safer communities

The review was conducted by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary, Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), an independent United Kingdom (UK) body.

According to the Governor, “This is the final piece of work which gives us a body of analysis that deserves serious and considered study and discussion.”

To this end, he suggested the review’s recommendations were a blueprint for safer communities and stronger institutions, noting that improving the governance and oversight of agencies would allow the Virgin Islands to better address “international organised crime, protect our borders, prevent remissive finance, and safeguard vulnerable people.”

Additionally, the Governor also reiterated the need for a collaborative, integrated approach in order “to succeed, we must take a proactive, integrated approach to tackling crime, including organised crime and the violence that gangs sadly proliferate”. 

As such, he proffered, “I look forward to working with the Premier, the National Security Council, all law enforcement agencies, all criminal justice partners, all partners across government and beyond.”

Continued contribution

According to Governor Pruce, “By improving the governance and oversight of law enforcement agencies, we will be better equipped to tackle crime, including international organised crime. Better enabled to protect our borders….while also safeguarding fundamental rights and freedoms.”

As it relates to operationalising the review's findings, a programme for funding and implementation is being developed, bolstered by technical support from UK-based experts. Governor Pruce said they are expected to work closely with local agencies to design and enact the recommended reforms.

To this end, he posits, “We all want to see the Virgin Islands flourish. So I look forward to continuing to make my contribution working together with all partners collaboratively to ensure that the safety, the security and the prosperity of our nation and our community prospers.”