Governor denies racism, sexism claims in removing Vanterpool
Governor Daniel Pruce has rejected allegations that his decision to remove Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool and revert her to Deputy Commissioner was motivated by racism or sexism.
In a video statement posted on his official social media page, Pruce said: “Claims that my decision is rooted in racism or sexism are completely false.”
The Governor said Vanterpool “has served far longer than anticipated when she was appointed”. He added: “When Jackie was first appointed … I certainly didn’t envisage that it would be over a year that she would have to fulfil that role.”
While addressing the public concerns, Pruce emphasised that his duty under the territory’s constitution requires him to ensure the effective functioning of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). He stated: “My duty is in relation to the police force as an organisation … the decisions I can take to help ensure that as an entire body of people, it functions effectively and successfully.”
The change follows Pruce’s recommendation of Richard Ullger, a former Commissioner of Police in Gibraltar, as the interim Acting Commissioner while a permanent recruitment process proceeds. The Police Service Commission reportedly rejected that candidate. Still, the Governor has stated that the interim post will be funded by the United Kingdom, freeing up additional resources within the force.
The Governor’s statement came amid a week of public protests and calls for his decision to be reversed. The Dr Natalio Wheatley-led government urged the Governor to reconsider his move, with supporters holding rallies outside Government House in Road Town.
The Governor previously insisted the move was based on organisational needs and not personal performance. “This is not a demotion, it’s not a sacking,” he said on Vanterpool’s contribution. “She’s returning to her permanent substantive appointment where she will still have an enormous contribution to make to the force.”
Under the terms announced, Vanterpool’s reversion to Deputy Commissioner is effective as of November 18, 2025. The process to fill the permanent Commissioner post remains underway.
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If Jackie breached confidentiality, how can she be ready.
Ayo just want to oppose the white man, Vanterpool ain’t qualified to lead that force, that’s why the place how it is..Ayo always want people ayo know on top of things without knowing how stuff even works!
Policing is more than being friendly and directing traffic and fancy speeches! Keep the politics out! If we speaking truthfully it have other individuals better to lead the force than Vanterpool!
He is a ra***t yes I know for sure
that means u is one 3rd dustrict rep wanna be
Governor Daniel Pruce has rejected allegations that his decision to remove Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool and revert her to Deputy Commissioner was motivated by racism or sexism.
He will never publicly admitt that. Hell awaits special people like this
Hells awaits? Is that because they never arrive. They go in the other direction?
Governor still awaiting the arrival of an organised big march. Where did they go?
looks on faces could speak out loud.
Murders and robberies have in creased under watch. She aint good enough.
You had eight(8) murders in 2008. Who was responsible? Who was commissioner of Police. Who was governor? Set MoFo’s.
Price behaviour betrays a guilty conscience
If its not racism, bring a black COP from the UK. Are there none qualified?