The V.I. Police Department says it has noticed an increase in the number of calls for service for domestic violence as Virgin Islanders stay at home.
The department speculated in a written statement Thursday that it might be related to orders to avoid the spread of coronavirus, called COVID-19, in the territory.
According to the statement:
St. Thomas/St. John Chief of Police Ludrick Thomas and St. Croix Police Chief Sidney Elskoe are appealing to families to use alternate methods of conflict resolution between family members. The VIPD is appealing to the community to take this time to engage in worthwhile family activities that would promote long-lasting family memories.
“Domestic violence is not conducive to family growth and development. While tempers tend to flare during these disasters, families must find ways to amicably resolve disputes,” Chief Thomas said.
Chief Elskoe added, “In a conflict, if it is possible, one family member should leave the home to allow the situation to cool down. Remember, there is no excuse for Domestic Violence.”
For more information on conflict resolution and domestic violence, contact the Family Resource Center in St. Thomas at (340) 776-3966 or the Women’s Coalition of St. Croix at (340) 773-9272.