U.S. Virgin Islands– In a significant move to strengthen collaboration between federal and local law enforcement, Virgin Islands Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea announces today that 37 federal law enforcement officers have been commissioned as Virgin Islands Peace Officers.
These officers, representing various federal agencies, completed special training focusing on the history, culture, and customs of the Virgin Islands. However, the training was under the guidance of UVI Professor Olasee Davis.
The commissioning ceremony marks a milestone in the ongoing effort to improve public safety and law enforcement coordination across the Territory. Moreover, attorney General Rhea highlights the importance of this initiative. So, the idea was that these officers will play a key role in enhancing community security. They will be respecting the unique cultural values of the Virgin Islands.
“Today’s commissioning represents a critical step in strengthening the relationship between federal and local law enforcement agencies,” said Attorney General Rhea. “These officers will not only have the authority to uphold the law but will also be well-prepared to engage with the community in a manner that reflects the Virgin Islands’ cultural heritage.”
Moreover, In 2012, the Virgin Islands Legislature passed Title 23, Virgin Islands Code, Section 3, granting the Commissioner of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) the authority to issue commissions as Virgin Islands Peace Officers to federal law enforcement officers.
So, the law applies to officers from agencies such as,
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- Bureau of Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Firearms (ATF), U.S
- Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)
- U.S. Marshals Service (USMS)
- U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).
However, the officers newly commissioned as Virgin Islands Peace Officers include two from the FBI. They also have five from the DEA, twelve from HSI, ten from CBP, and eight from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Under the provisions of this law, commissioned federal officers are empowered to enforce Virgin Islands laws. It includes the authority to make arrests for violations of local statutes. They are also authorized to use reasonable force when necessary to defend themselves or others during lawful arrests or in situations involving a fleeing felon who poses a serious threat.
Moreover, U.S. Attorney Delia Smith also emphasized the importance of this partnership in enhancing law enforcement capacity. “The collaboration between federal and local agencies is essential in combating crime,” she said. “This expanded authority for federal officers ensures a more robust response to criminal activity and a unified approach to law enforcement across the Territory.”
As part of their commissioning process, the officers underwent training led by Professor Olasee Davis, an expert in Virgin Islands history, culture, and agriculture. So, the training focused on educating the officers about the Territory’s rich cultural heritage and customs, ensuring that they are equipped to engage respectfully and thoughtfully with the local community.
However, Professor Davis, who is an author, educator, and cultural historian, emphasized the importance of cultural sensitivity in law enforcement interactions. “Understanding the cultural nuances of the Virgin Islands is crucial to building trust between law enforcement and the community,”
Davis said. “This training ensures that these officers are not only prepared to serve and protect but also to engage in meaningful, respectful interactions with residents.”
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key officials, including VIPD Assistant Commissioner Sidney Elskoe, who provided opening remarks. However, the event highlights a continued commitment to strengthening law enforcement partnerships and building a safer, more harmonious community.
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