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First off, it's great to find a resource like this on the 'net...a wonderful place indeed!
After graduating college with a B.S. in Administration of Justice, and spending some time working in a civilian capacity with the State Police here (waiting for an Academy), I've really given some considerable thought to the idea of relocating to the islands (VIPD services St. Thomas/Water Island/St. John/St. Croix) for a career with the U.S. Virgin Islands Police Department.
I've read through their site ( http://www.vipd.gov.vi/main/Main.aspx) and here as well, but I was looking for a little additional info from those of you here with the "inside info"...the sales pitch/ad copy, pictures, overall style of life, and location certainly seem appealing, but I'd like to learn more from those who actually understand the islands before making an official contact with their HR Dept.
Don't know if it matters much, but I'm 24, don't have any thing holding me back here (obligations, etc.), in great shape, and ready for a change in life. Plus, with a nice 20-year retirement (state here just went to 25 :(), I could serve my entire career with USVI PD, and be done (if I wanted to leave for whatever reason...) at around 45yoa!
How do you all feel about the VIPD? Good place to spend twenty years?
Thanks!!
Posted : September 19, 2008 10:13 pm
If you have a propensity towards less than ethical or legal practices, then the VIPD may be for you. Don't get me wrong, I know many of the officers and a good bunch of them are honest...but, with the pay being as low as it is, they tend to stretch their authority to make up for it. Some will outright take a bribe...others will mis-use their Gov't vehicle for personal use...others will confiscate drugs and re-sell them while letting the perp go...some will prey on the whiteys (DWW)....some will actually shoot first and ask questions later....then be exonerated due to 'lack of evidence'....being a cop here is quite a unique situation...due diligence on your part is of utmost importance. JMHO, mind you.
Posted : September 20, 2008 1:13 pm
Unfortunately I would have to agree with Marty...VIPD is probably not going to work well for you if you are looking to work here until retirement. You might consider working for FBI, Border and Customs or Supreme Court Marshalls. Good luck in your search. We need more hard working, honest law enforcement here.
Posted : September 22, 2008 11:14 pm
Our police department will never get any better if you guys tell them it's not for them. There have been many who have come and succeeded in the force.
Posted : September 23, 2008 3:33 am
do you know how to ignore a crime in progress ,arrest only white drivers (DWW) , use your police car to taxi friends and family around ,play domino's and drink on duty?........these are necessary skills here on stx.....
Posted : September 23, 2008 1:01 pm
Do yourself a favor and look into federal law enforcement.
Customs and Border Protection (www.cbp.gov) on St. Croix is always hiring and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (www.ice.gov) needs agents badly.
Posted : September 23, 2008 9:55 pm
