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April 29, 2008 – Acting Commissioner Novelle Francis commends Virgin Islands Police Department for its excellent work in keeping residents and visitors safe during the VI Carnival season.
“The community was well protected by law enforcement at all Carnival events,” Acting Commissioner Francis said. “The diligence displayed by the officers, many who worked double shifts, spoke to the dedication that members of the Virgin Islands Police Force have to their chosen profession and to protecting residents and visitors of the Territory.”
Francis continued, saying the Carnival activities were relatively crime-free with only minor skirmishes, which were quickly quelled by officers. “There was a highly visible police presence thanks to the involvement of other law local and federal enforcement agencies adding to our numbers. Also present was a contingent from St. Croix and members of the new Police Recruit class who are scheduled to graduate in June on St. Thomas.”
Acting Commissioner Francis said St. Thomas/St. John/Water Island Chief of Police Rodney Querrard portrayed excellent leadership qualities deploying officer to key areas, preventing trouble before it starts. “He continues to earn the respect of his fellow officers by being in the field with them side by side,” Acting Commissioner Francis noted.
The Acting Commissioner also commended the community saying “As with the Crucian Christmas Festival on St. Croix in December, and again with the VI Carnival on St. Thomas the community has demonstrated that we can celebrate our culture and have a good time together without violence.”
