VIPD Receives $870,738 From Homeland Security Investigations as Part of Equitable Share of Seized Assets

  • Staff Consortium
  • September 21, 2021
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From Left to Right: HSI St. Croix R.I.C. Eugene Thomas, STT-STJ Police Chief Barrington Thomas, HSI SAC San Juan-Ivan Arvelo, Commissioner Ray Martinez, HSI STT R.I.C. in Charge-Gail Fraser. By. VI CONSORTIUM

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Special Agent in Charge (SAC) San Juan-Ivan Arvelo on Sept. 16 presented a symbolic check to V.I. Police Department Commissioner Ray Martinez in the amount of $870, 738.55, which represents the amount that was transferred to the V.I.P.D. as part of the HSI Equitable Sharing Program. 

According to the release, through equitable sharing, federal forfeiture proceeds can be shared with cooperating state and local law enforcement agencies. This helps to enhance cooperation amongst these agencies and provide valuable additional resources to state and local law enforcement agencies. 

Mr. Martinez expressed gratitude to his HSI counterparts. "On behalf of the V.I.P.D., we are grateful for the opportunity to continue working alongside our federal partners in HSI as it relates to combating transnational crime, as well as other local crimes that may have a Homeland Security nexus," he said.

To receive an equitable share of seized assets, an agency must assist in the law enforcement effort resulting in the federal forfeiture, according to the release. The amount presented on September 16th represents a portion of assets that were seized from criminal organizations by CBP Air and Marine Enforcement Officers and HSI St. Thomas agents with support from VIPD.

“This collaboration with law enforcement partners is an essential element towards combatting transnational criminal organizations and their illicit activities in our area of responsibility," said SAC Arvelo.

 

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