U.S. Virgin Islands Peace Officer Standards and Training

Message from the Executive Director
U.S. Virgin Islands Peace Officer Standards and Training Council

On behalf of the U.S. Virgin Islands Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, I extend sincere appreciation to the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) for selecting the U.S. Virgin Islands as the host of the 2026 International Training Summit.

We are honored to welcome law enforcement leaders and public safety professionals from across the United States, the Caribbean, and beyond to our Territory for this important event.

This year’s theme, “Justice Without Borders: Global Practices Protecting the Vulnerable,” reflects our shared commitment to collaboration, leadership, and service. It reminds us that while we may serve in different jurisdictions, we are united by a common mission to protect our communities and those most vulnerable among us.

We are especially proud to recognize the Virgin Islands Police Department as the host agency for this Summit. Alongside NOBLE, POST, and our territorial law enforcement partners, this collaboration has created a valuable opportunity for training, partnership, and the exchange of ideas that will continue to strengthen law enforcement throughout the Virgin Islands.

I would like to extend a special thank you to President Renee Hall and the NOBLE International Affairs Committee for bringing this meaningful Summit to our shores. May the relationships built and knowledge shared throughout this gathering continue to inspire excellence, unity, and progress in public safety.

Respectfully,

Gleston E. McIntosh Jr.
Executive Director
U.S. Virgin Islands Peace Officer Standards and Training Council

This Memorial Day, the Office of the Peace Officer Standards and Training solemnly honors and remembers the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the United States of America.

Their courage, selflessness, and unwavering dedication to duty secured the freedoms we enjoy today. We pause in remembrance of those who gave their lives in defense of our nation and extend our deepest gratitude to the families whose sacrifice is carried alongside their own.

Here in the U.S. Virgin Islands, we proudly recognize the many Virgin Islanders who have answered the call to serve our country with honor across generations. Their commitment and sacrifice remain a lasting part of our Territory’s history and legacy.

Today, we stand united in reflection, remembrance, and gratitude. May we continue to honor their memory through service, respect, and our continued commitment to the values they so courageously defended.

May we never forget

Regards,
Gleston E. McIntosh, Jr.
Executive Director

Good day,

Trust between the community and peace officers is not just important, it is essential.

When trust exists, it creates a strong foundation where officers and the community can work together toward a common goal, safety, justice, and a better quality of life for all. People are more willing to report crimes, share information, and cooperate during investigations when they believe in the integrity and fairness of those sworn to protect them.

Trust also brings a sense of reassurance. It allows community members to feel confident that when they call for help, they will be treated with respect, professionalism, and compassion. In return, officers are better able to do their jobs effectively because they have the support and partnership of the people they serve.

For peace officers, building that trust requires consistency, doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It means being accountable, transparent, and committed to treating every individual with dignity and fairness.

Strong relationships between law enforcement and the community don’t happen overnight, they are built over time through positive interactions, open communication, and mutual respect.

When trust is present, communities thrive, partnerships grow stronger, and together we create a safer, more united environment for everyone.

Let’s continue to build, strengthen, and protect that trust, together.

HAPPY POLICE WEEK!!!

Regards,
Gleston E. McIntosh, Jr.
Executive Director

Good day,

In law enforcement, presentation and grooming are not about vanity, they’re about professionalism, discipline, and public trust.

The way an officer presents themselves is often the first impression the community receives. A clean, well maintained uniform, proper grooming, and attention to detail send a clear message that this officer is prepared, disciplined, and takes their role seriously. That visual presence alone can influence how people respond, whether in moments of cooperation, crisis, or conflict.

Grooming standards also reflect self-respect and accountability. If an officer is committed to maintaining themselves, it shows they are just as committed to upholding the standards of the profession. It’s about consistency and doing the right things, even in the smallest details.

More importantly, professional appearance strengthens credibility and command presence. In high-pressure situations, people naturally look for someone who appears confident, composed, and in control. Presentation helps establish that authority before a single word is spoken.

It also represents something bigger than the individual, it reflects the agency, the badge, and the profession as a whole. Every officer is a walking representation of their department and the community they serve.

At the end of the day, how we present ourselves is a direct reflection of our pride in the job and our respect for the people we serve.

Stay sharp. Stay professional. Stay ready.

Happy Police Week!!!

Regards,
Gleston E. McIntosh, Jr.
Executive Director

As the Executive Director of the Peace Officer Standards and Training Council, It is my responsibility to ensure all peace officers throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands are properly certified, professionally trained, and current with the standards and trainings necessary to serve our community with integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

During Police Week, we honor the dedicated men and women of law enforcement who serve with courage, commitment, and sacrifice. We also pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their service and dedication will never be forgotten.

Having served thirty years in law enforcement, I understand firsthand the responsibilities and challenges that accompany this profession. This week we recognize not only the badge, but also the individuals behind it who work tirelessly each day to protect and serve our communities.

May God continue to protect and guide all law enforcement officers throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands and across our nation.

Have a Great Police Week 🙏🏽

Regards,
Gleston E. McIntosh, Jr.
Executive Director

On behalf of the Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council, you are cordially invited to attend the 3rd Annual NOBLE International Training Summit, taking place on the beautiful island of St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands from June 3–5, 2026.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the U.S. Virgin Islands, this 2.5-day summit led by National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) International, will bring together law enforcement professionals, leaders, and practitioners from across the globe. Hosted by the US Virgin Islands Police Department, this event aims to facilitate meaningful dialogue, share best practices, and strengthen international partnerships that enhance public safety and community trust.

Over the course of the summit, participants can expect:

* Engaging and informative training sessions
* Dynamic discussions on contemporary law enforcement challenges
* Valuable networking opportunities with regional and international professionals
* Exposure to innovative strategies and global perspectives in policing

This training is open to all practitioners in law enforcement and related fields, providing an inclusive platform for collaboration, professional development, and knowledge exchange.

We invite you to join us for this impactful experience while also enjoying the culture, hospitality, and natural beauty that make the Virgin Islands a premier destination.

Additional details regarding accommodations, and the full agenda will be shared soon.

We look forward to welcoming you to St. Thomas for what promises to be an inspiring and memorable event.

Warm regards,
Gleston E. McIntosh, Jr.
Executive Director
Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council
U.S. Virgin Islands

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Congratulations to Magistrate Venetia H. Velazquez on her nomination to the Bench of the Superior Court in the District of St. Croix. This is a well deserved recognition for her professionalism, dedication, and service to justice in our community. I have known and worked with her and this is well deserved.

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. also highlighted the importance of continued support for the judiciary to help address the significant backlog of cases that have accumulated over the years a reminder of how vital strong leadership and commitment are within our courts.

I wish Magistrate Velazquez continued success as she embarks on this next chapter of service to the people of the U.S. Virgin Islands. ⚖️🇻🇮

The Oath of Honor is resighted at the opening ceremony at IACP by all sworn Law Enfcement Officers. The Oath of Honor is a professional and moral pledge that serves as the ethical foundation for those in law enforcement and public safety. It’s more than a ceremonial statement, it represents a lifelong commitment to integrity, accountability, respect, and service. Let’s break down what each part means:

THE OATH OF HONOR
On my honor, I will never betray my profession, my integrity, my character, or the public trust. I will treat all individuals with dignity and respect and ensure that my actions are dedicated to ensuring the safety of my community and the preservation of human life. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always maintain the highest ethical standards and uphold the values of my community and the agency I serve.

I had the privilege of attending the 2025 International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference and Exposition, themed “Above and Beyond,” in Denver, Colorado, representing the U.S. Virgin Islands Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council.

The theme perfectly captured the spirit of this year’s event, challenging law enforcement leaders to go beyond traditional approaches in training, innovation, and community engagement. From enhancing officer wellness to integrating emerging technologies and leadership strategies, every discussion reinforced the need to rise above routine and continuously strive for excellence.

Key takeaway: Leadership requires going “Above and Beyond”’ not only in our service to the public but in how we train, lead, and support those who protect our communities.

I look forward to applying the insights gained to strengthen law enforcement standards, accountability, and professional development across the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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🙏✨ On Sunday, September 14, 2025, Grace Baptist Church graciously invited the VIPD to worship with them as they honored law enforcement for the tireless work they do in our community.

VIPD leadership extends heartfelt gratitude to Pastor Keithly Saunders and the entire membership of Grace Baptist Church for their love, support, and prayers for the Virgin Islands Police Department .