Governor Albert Bryan Jr. Photo Credit: REEMY-REEMZ PHOTOGRAPHY/VICONSORTIUM
Late Saturday, Governor Albert Bryan made a statement revealing a multi-year plan aimed at curbing human trafficking, bolstering victims' support, and potentially averting such atrocities.
He said the announcement underscores the government's unwavering commitment to enhancing public safety, especially for young women and girls. The announcement comes as the local government battles JP Morgan in court, seeking $190 million in damages after accusing the bank of facilitating Jeffrey Esptein’s criminal sex trafficking ring by doing nothing even while senior executives were raising questions about whether the bank should retain him as a client.
"My administration is deeply committed to preventing human trafficking, enhancing public safety, and protecting young women and girls from abuse," the governor stated emphatically. He further expressed his backing for the Attorney General's efforts to enforce federal anti-trafficking laws, highlighting JPMorgan Chase's case among others.
Governor Bryan also spoke about the proactive measures undertaken by the Virgin Islands Department of Justice. This includes actions against the estate of Jeffrey Epstein on behalf of his victims, which he says demonstrates the administration's resolution to pursue justice relentlessly.
In the coming week, the governor and the attorney general will unveil a new initiative designed to identify and prevent human trafficking while enhancing support for victims. Born out of discussions with sex trafficking victims and leading experts in trafficking prevention, the initiative will strengthen the government's ability to combat trafficking and provide much-needed support to victims. "I look forward to sharing more details about this proposal soon," Governor Bryan concluded.

