RVIPF cautions residents against complacency

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has warned residents not to become complacent despite several encouraging crime reductions in the first quarter of 2025.

While some serious crimes have decreased, police say other offences are rising and need urgent community attention.

In a recent press release, the RVIPF confirmed that other burglaries fell by 44 per cent, sexual offences dropped by 42 per cent, and serious assaults were down 17 per cent compared to the same period last year. These represent the lowest first-quarter figures for these categories in at least five years.

“These gains are encouraging,” the RVIPF noted, but warned that “we are urging the public not to lose sight of emerging concerns as some other crime categories show upward trends”.

Robberies doubled from six to 12 cases, marking a 100 per cent increase. Damaging property rose by 75 per cent, with 24 more cases reported. The theft of motor vehicles increased by 47 per cent, and minor assaults jumped by 25 per cent, with 18 additional cases over the same period.

The Force pointed out that the rise in damaging property and minor assault cases came mostly from domestic disputes. Police say tackling these problems requires not only law enforcement, but also social services, volunteer organisations, and community members.

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool urged everyone to stay alert and continue working with law enforcement to help stop these worrying trends. “We urge the community to remain vigilant and work with the RVIPF to sustain these hard-won gains,” Vanterpool stated.

“Together, we must reverse the concerning trends in robberies, minor assaults, and other areas to ensure long-term safety and security across the territory. 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,” she explained.

The RVIPF said it remains committed to targeted enforcement and intelligence-led policing. Residents with information on any crime are encouraged to contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477.