ST. THOMAS — Prosecutors in the corruption case against former V.I. Police Commissioner Ray Martinez and former Office of Management and Budget Director Jenifer O’Neal said Tuesday that they see no possibility of a resolution outside of trial, reiterating that the proceedings will begin on December 3, 2025, and are expected to conclude by December 19.

During the status hearing, government attorneys told the court that the trial — which involves allegations that Martinez and O’Neal collaborated to enrich themselves through inflated invoices from Mon Ethos Pro Support founder David Whitaker — should be completed by the December 19 deadline. The schedule includes cross-examinations and two days set aside for jury deliberation.

“The United States sees no resolution for the case outside of trial,” prosecutors said, confirming that their witness list is nearly finalized and includes 154 pages of emails from witnesses expected to testify. The government said it is fully prepared to proceed.

Defense attorneys for both defendants also indicated their readiness. Attorney Dale Lionel Smith, representing Ms. O’Neal, told the court that his client “will be prepared” for trial. He sought clarification on how long the proceedings would last, to which prosecutors reaffirmed the mid-December conclusion.

Smith also raised the possibility that attorneys for Martinez might seek to sever their case from O’Neal’s, but confirmed that he would not pursue such a move himself. Attorneys for Martinez quickly clarified that they have no desire to separate the trials.

The indictment against Martinez and O’Neal alleges that the two former government officials worked together to facilitate the expedited payment of inflated invoices submitted by Whitaker, enriching themselves at taxpayers’ expense. Whitaker, who has already pleaded guilty to bribery and wire fraud, is expected to serve as a key government witness.

The charges accuse the defendants of abusing their offices for personal gain by ensuring that Mon Ethos Pro Support — a company founded by Whitaker — received preferential treatment and payment priority in exchange for personal benefit.

Prosecutors told the court that the government is prepared to present a comprehensive case detailing the alleged financial arrangements between the defendants and Whitaker. The defense, meanwhile, said they are confident in their clients’ ability to respond to the charges.

With no plea negotiations underway and both sides signaling readiness, the trial will proceed as scheduled. U.S. Magistrate Judge Alan Teague, who presided over Tuesday’s hearing, confirmed that the December 3 start date remains firm, regardless of the federal government’s shutdown status.

The case marks one of the most significant public corruption prosecutions in the Virgin Islands in recent years, tying together multiple departments, high-level officials, and a contractor who has already admitted to criminal conduct.