RVIPF community officers make their mark

The following is a media release from the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).

The recently dispatched community officers are again moving around and making their mark within the assigned communities. Acting Deputy Commissioner Jacqueline Vanterpool says the COVID-19 outbreak in July and August halted much of the in-person links the officers intended to build, however work has restarted in September.

“We are pleased with the enthusiasm showed by the officers selected to be community officers as they make their rounds within the communities. They have adapted well to their new roles. We expect that relationships will be built and opportunities to collaborate in reducing social disorder and public safety issues within communities will increase,” the Acting Deputy noted.

Just prior to the July COVID outbreak, community officers made introductions and presentations at a number of walks, ride-a-longs and observations including the New Life Baptist Church Ride for Life Bike-a-cade, Children’s Read and Play Programme in the East End Park, the First Caribbean Walk for Cancer event as well as various schools and churches within their assigned zones.

Community officers of the East End division partnered with Sgt. Jacqueline Tom- Christopher in the creation of a Girls Club for females between the ages of 9 and 19.

Additionally, Road Town Community Officer Mitchell John and his colleague Constable Emnisa Edwards presented a certificate for the community spirit shown by Elmore Stoutt High School student Swelend Charles.

The two officers also joined a team from Association of Reef Keepers on a turtle tagging exhibition.

Along with marking the necessary introductions, these community officers will be making their rounds to businesses within the community to assess security needs and requirements and develop a greater understanding of the social needs unique to their assigned zones.

The RVIPF community officers are to be a liaison between the police and the public in charting the way for developing safety and more cohesive communities in the territory.