Dear Source:
Great article on new candidate John de Jongh for governor in the V.I. The islands desperately need an honest governor if there is such a thing, and I hope that the good people of the V.I. agree and elect Mr. de Jongh.
I live on Cape Cod, Mass., but also have spent over two years on St. Thomas since 1997. I rent a condo on Barret Hill across from the botanical gardens, unit 4B. I worked as a building contractor and had occasion to do construction for several government officials, police officers and one customs officer. Believe me when I tell you that corruption is the norm, not the exception. It is sad to see such a gorgeous island with awesome people and tremendous potential being raped by the very people who are sworn to protect and serve. The general opinion of people from the U.S. who have visited the V.I. is that it is a third-world country that is sugar coated with tourist money. What does not make sense to anyone is how a U.S. possession in the year 2002 could have so many problems. It is not that hard to run a government with three islands, and maintain law and order. The letter suggesting outside law enforcement be brought in to re-establish law and order and teach the police officers how to run a top police department is another good idea that should be seriously looked at. I have been thinking about a return to the island for more construction work, but would consider working for the government or law enforcement, as I am a former police officer, if it would help to make the islands as good as they should be.
Thanks for the opportunity to ramble on, and good luck with the new elections.
Rick Haydon
Cape Cod, Mass.
Editor's note: We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.
