‘I wanted to provide an update concerning the leadership of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force.

‘Ms Jacqueline Vanterpool will return to her substantive role as Deputy Commissioner of Police on 18 November, after serving as Acting Commissioner of Police. 

‘I have taken this decision in accordance with the Constitution, having sought the advice of the Police Service Commission. I have also been mindful of my duty, under the Police Act, to ensure the effective administration of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF).  

‘When Ms Vanterpool assumed the role of Acting Commissioner last year, the terms of the appointment were “until further notice”. In the end, Ms Vanterpool has served for over a year in the position. An extended period with an acting leader is challenging for any organisation, not least one such as the RVIPF, which as we know is facing a difficult operating environment.   

‘I would like to take this opportunity to thank Ms Vanterpool for her service as Acting Commissioner over the past twelve months, in a demanding and often pressurised role. I should also like to pay tribute to her senior team and the wider police force who have supported the Acting Commissioner during this period.
‘Additionally, this morning, I have recommended to the Police Service Commission (PoSC) a nominee for the role of Interim Acting Commissioner, starting on 18 November for a limited period until the permanent Commissioner can be appointed. I am seeking the advice of the PoSC, in accordance with the Constitution, and the usual processes will be followed, including involving the National Security Council.

Without pre-empting those processes, I judge it is my duty, in the interests of transparency and given the legitimate public interest, to share that the nominee is Richard Ullger, former Commissioner of the Royal Gibraltar Police, a position he held for five years. He has also worked more recently as Acting Commissioner of Police in the Falklands and St Helena. He has extensive senior policing experience in the context of the UK’s Overseas Territories.  

‘I am mindful of the resourcing pressures in the force, so I have agreed with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office that the Interim Acting Commissioner - whoever is appointed to the role - will be funded by the UK.

‘That should allow for three DCPs, rather than two, to remain in post simultaneously and provide additional senior resilience in the force.
‘I should note, the separate process for recruiting a substantive Commissioner of Police continues. 

‘As I committed upon being sworn in as Governor in January 2024, I am duty-bound by the Constitution to ensure the safety and security of the Virgin Islands. This is a responsibility I take with utmost seriousness, and I will continue to do all within my power to uphold it.

‘Finally, I’d like to once again recognise the dedication and commitment of all RVIPF officers during this exceptionally challenging time and thank them for their ongoing service to the people of the Virgin Islands.’