The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is reporting a significant decline in serious crimes for the first quarter of 2025, marking the lowest figures recorded in the past five years.
According to the RVIPF’s latest statistics, serious assaults dropped by 17 percent compared to the same period in 2024 and are now 11 percent below the five-year average. Sexual offences saw an even more dramatic reduction, plunging by 42 percent year-over-year and 36 percent below the five-year average.
Burglaries—including break-ins at business premises, construction sites, and storage facilities—also saw a sharp decrease, falling 44 percent compared to the first quarter of 2024 and 30 percent below the five-year norm.
Murder rates remain low, with one homicide recorded in the first quarter of 2025, matching the figure for the same period last year. This marks a notable improvement compared to 2021, when four murders were recorded in the first quarter.
As part of its ongoing crackdown on illegal drug activity, the RVIPF reported seizing more than 12 kilograms of cannabis, 2,900 cannabis plants, and 2,447 seedlings during the first quarter.
The force also intensified its campaign against illegal firearms, recovering seven pistols and two rifles—surpassing last year’s first-quarter totals. Ammunition seizures more than doubled, rising from 152 rounds to 389. The RVIPF noted that a high charge rate in firearm possession cases reflects its continued zero-tolerance stance on illegal weaponry.
“These gains are the result of focused enforcement, intelligence-led operations, and strong community partnerships, demonstrating that collaborative efforts continue to yield real results in the fight against crime,” the RVIPF said in a statement.
Despite the overall improvements, the RVIPF flagged several troubling trends. Robberies doubled, increasing from six cases in the first quarter of 2024 to 12 in 2025. Cases of property damage rose by 75 percent, with 24 more incidents reported compared to last year. Motor vehicle thefts climbed by 47 percent, while minor assaults jumped by 25 percent—an increase of 18 reported cases.
Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool urged the public to remain engaged in community policing efforts.
“We urge the community to remain vigilant and work with the RVIPF to sustain these hard-won gains. Together, we must reverse the concerning trends in robberies, minor assaults, and other areas, to ensure long-term safety and security across the territory,” Vanterpool said.
She added, “The issues underpinning our crime situation are complex and will require sustained efforts to ensure long-term gains. Everyone has a role to play in this fight.”
the white, blue, red, white collar crimes and other?
To the entire team, Keep up the good work!!