Vanterpool confident she can effectively lead RVIPF

Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool says she is prepared and confident to lead the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as its substantive head, after nearly six months in the acting role.

Speaking recently on JTV, Vanterpool described her journey to the top post, recalling her early dreams of becoming a police officer and the many personal and professional challenges she has overcome throughout her career. She confirmed her long-standing ambition to become the territory’s first female Commissioner of Police.

As of now, Vanterpool has not reapplied for the post but said she is awaiting divine guidance. “As the Lord leads, he will lead me and guide me. I will take his instructions as he gives them to me,” she said.

“My head is saying to me, this has been your passion. This has been your goal. Go for it,” Vanterpool stated.

The Commissioner role was recently re-advertised following an earlier recruitment round that was cancelled. Vanterpool said she had been scheduled for an interview before the process was abruptly halted.

Vanterpool said she was disappointed after the process was halted previously. “I was a bit disappointed, yes. Frustrated? No. But disappointed because you had an air of expectancy to be interviewed for the process and then it was cancelled,” she explained.

During her time as Acting Commissioner, Vanterpool led the force through a period marked by a surge in serious crimes, including armed robberies and firearm-related offences. She said the RVIPF recorded several successes under her leadership.

“If you look at January to March, we were able to seize nine firearms… and four of them are prohibited firearms. We got 378 rounds of ammunition,” she reported.

Vanterpool also pointed to the improved detection rate. “It’s now back up to 50 percent, which is our mandate,” she said, attributing this to “aggressive policing” and the dedication of frontline officers.

Despite the challenges of leading without a full command team at times, she insisted she remained focused and prayerful. “We just need to be given an opportunity to continue doing the work that we have started,” Vanterpool asserted.

Asked directly if she is capable of handling the full scope of the Commissioner’s duties, including strategic planning and external relations, Vanterpool replied confidently.

“I firmly believe… myself and my command team are in a much better position right now to run RVIPF. We can. I know we can,” she stated.