CHARLOTTE AMALIE — The Virgin Islands Police Department Training Academy held commencement exercises for 16 new peace officers at Lockhart Elementary School in St. Thomas on Wednesday.
These peace officers completed nine months of virtual and in-person law enforcement training, and will go on to work at the Virgin Islands Police Department, Virgin Islands Port Authority, the Virgin Islands Legislature, and the Superior Court of the Virgin Islands.
During his remarks at the ceremony, Police Commissioner Trevor Velinor challenged the new peace officers to always display professionalism, accountability, and effective communication.
“You’re sharp. You’re committed,” Commissioner Velinor said. “You have the dedication. You’re trained. Go out and do the people’s work.”
Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach said in his remarks that the Virgin Islands community is grateful to the new officers for choosing to put their lives on the line for the good of the community.
“I know that we will be grateful to you in the days to come because of the quality of service that you will provide to this community,” Lieutenant Governor Roach told the new officers.
A similar exercise will be held in St. Croix on Friday.
“Congratulations to the Peace Officer Recruit Class 2020-1 in the St. Thomas-St. John District,” V.I. Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett said. (Wednesday’s) “graduation represents your entrance into the ranks of an organization that answers our community’s call to protect the public good and maintain law and order!”