His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Augustus Jaspert acting in accordance with sections 97(1) and 97(2) of the Virgin Islands Constitution, following the recommendation of the Virgin Islands Police Service Commission and advice of the National Security Council, has extended the appointed of Mr. Michael Matthews as Police Commissioner of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) effective 20 April for a period of two years.

According to the Governor, Mr. Matthews has led the RVIPF in demanding circumstances, dealing with significant public order and safety concerns, whilst also continuing efforts to build and strengthen the Force for the long term through strategic planning.

The Commissioner continues to bring policing insight and experience with strong leadership and communications skills to great effect.

Governor Jaspert said, “I am very grateful for the support of Commissioner Matthews to the Territory and to the National Security Council. His leadership has ensured that the Territory’s policing is emerging strengthened from the events of 2017. I am grateful for all that he has done and to all the RVIPF officers and staff who work hard to help keep us safe.

He added, “I am pleased with his support to his senior team in developing their capability. This includes building the capability of his senior officers as future leaders.”

Mr. Matthews was first appointed Commissioner of Police in the Virgin Islands, 20 April 2016.

He began his police career in 1982 and brings a wide range of strategic and operational policing experience to his role. Mr. Matthews was Chief Constable of the Gloucestershire Constabulary prior to his appointment as Chief Constable of the Cyprus Sovereign Base Area (SBA) Police Force.

He was awarded the Queens Police Medal for distinguished service in the New Years Honours list of 2013.