During the recently held speech from the Throne, Governor of the Virgin Islands his Excellency John Rankin CMG stated that Security and Justice Legislations are at the top of Government’s Agenda.
Rankin who on January 18th, 2022 was delivering his first Speech from the Throne since taking up the post of Governor in the Virgin Islands said, “The introduction of the Police Act (CAP. 165) will bring together an updated legislative basis for policing in the territory and provide a strong constitutional and professional base for a modernised Police Force.”
These legislations are expected to be a part of the pieces of legislation that form the Government of the Virgin Islands’ agenda for the Fourth session of the Fourth House of Assembly.
These legislations are expected to significantly affect security and justice in the Virgin Islands, both of which have been a part of the Fahie lead administrations pledge to instill good governance, transparency and accountability.
On the matter of serious crimes which have plagued the Virgin Islands in the past few years, Rankin said this will be a vital means in supporting the combating of serious crimes and the continued strengthening of public confidence in the criminal justice system. Additionally, assist in ensure the protection of witnesses and the preservation of their rights by providing for a court to make a witness anonymity order to protect the safety of the witness, prevent property damage, and prevent real harm to the public interest.
The Royal Virgin Islands police force in 2021 alone saw a record number of officers being indicted for a number of high profile crimes, which have significantly affected not only the organizations ability to function and enforce law but weakened public trust in law enforcement.
The Civil Procedure Rules will serve as a vital role in managing all criminal matters filed with the Supreme Court and is expected to improve upon the Criminal Procedure Code and provide a more detailed framework for the administration of justice.