Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has signed an executive order temporarily assigning peace officers from several executive branch agencies to the command of the V.I. Police Department, expanding VIPD’s law enforcement support through July 12 during a period of heightened public safety demands.
Executive Order No. 547-2026 places designated peace officers under the command of the VIPD commissioner from June 29 through July 12. Government House said the coordinated deployment is intended to support territory-wide operations during increased public activity, including St. John Celebration events.
“Public safety requires constant coordination and the ability to adjust resources as conditions require,” Governor Bryan said. “This temporary deployment will give the Police Department additional trained personnel to strengthen its operations, increase visibility and help maintain peace and order throughout the Territory.”
The executive order follows a recommendation from VIPD Commissioner Mario Brooks, based on the department’s operational needs through the conclusion of St. John Celebration activities.
“Our district chiefs now have the additional support they need to push our crime-reduction strategies to the next level,” Commissioner Brooks said. “Law-abiding citizens throughout the Virgin Islands will see a heightened police presence meant to reassure them. Those intent on disrupting the peace of our islands should expect swift, coordinated and resolute action. Our resolve is clear.”
Peace officers from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs, Department of Planning and Natural Resources, Virgin Islands Fire and Emergency Medical Services, Department of Justice and Virgin Islands Lottery will be available for temporary assignment under the police commissioner.
The police commissioner will consult with the heads of those agencies to coordinate schedules and assignments while minimizing impacts on essential government services. During the temporary deployment, the assigned officers will operate under the immediate command of the police commissioner.
“By coordinating personnel across the executive branch, we are giving VIPD greater flexibility to address heightened public safety needs while maintaining clear leadership, accountability and continuity of service,” Governor Bryan said. “This is a unified government effort to support law enforcement and protect our communities.”
Government House said Virgin Islands law authorizes the governor, upon the recommendation of the police commissioner, to temporarily reassign executive branch peace officers when additional assistance is needed for specific police operations.
Personnel costs will remain with each officer’s employing agency, consistent with the executive order. The temporary deployment will conclude July 12.
Governor Bryan said the action reflects the administration’s continued commitment to strengthening interagency cooperation and ensuring government resources can be directed where they are most needed.
“This deployment reflects a government working together to strengthen VIPD’s operational capacity, protect our residents, visitors and businesses, and support the officers serving on the front lines of public safety,” Governor Bryan said.
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