Dear Source
I was born and raised in St. Croix. I am a police commander, with 25 years experience. I teach and consult in the area of community policing, cultural diversity, homicide and death investigations, search and seizure, narcotics investigations, etc.
The crime problem in the U.S. Virgin Islands, especially on St. Croix, is alarming. This month alone, St. Croix has experienced four killings. The death of the taxi driver is the 19th homicide this year and 37th in the territory. Crime and disorder have taken over. The economy and the quality of life are affected. I am concerned.
Violent crimes are steadily on the rise. The increase is troubling. The Virgin Islands, once heralded as "Paradise," is quickly becoming a place no one wants to visit. This is ridiculous. These senseless killings must stop. The time has come to restore order and take back our streets. We cannot allow lawless, irresponsible thugs to continue to terrorize our community and our neighborhoods.
Citizens and other affected stakeholders must stand firm with law enforcement. The team must prevail. Every law abiding citizen has a responsibility to get involved and participate. Partnership is of the essence. Law enforcement, however, must make it safe and secure for those willing to help.
The decay of the Territory is deplorable. We must echo a sound of solidarity. We must send message to thugs everywhere, that their behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We have suffered long enough. Let's take back our community!
Ronald V. Davis
Hampton, Virginia
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