RVIPF warns public against distributing child porn

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a public warning against the distribution of child pornography following reports of a video involving high school students being circulated on social media.

Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis cautioned that anyone convicted in the Magistrate’s Court of distributing child pornography could face a fine of up to two hundred thousand dollars, seven years in prison, or both. Convictions in the High Court carry even harsher penalties, with fines of up to five hundred thousand dollars, fourteen years in prison, or both.

Davis emphasized that the possession and distribution of such material is a serious offense under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act 2014. He also highlighted that recent 2025 amendments to the Act expand the definition of a “computer” to include cellphones, digital recorders, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems.

“We urge the public to act responsibly and refrain from sharing or possessing explicit content involving minors. Anyone found in violation of the law will be held accountable to the fullest extent,” Davis stated.

The RVIPF is urging individuals who have received such material to delete it immediately and refrain from sharing it further. Parents, guardians, and educators are also encouraged to have open discussions with young people about the legal and personal consequences of engaging in or distributing explicit content.

To report incidents, the public can contact the RVIPF Family and Juvenile Unit at 368-9401 or confidentially report via Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or overseas at (284) 800-8477. The RVIPF Intelligence Unit can also be reached directly at 368-9339.