Above: the talks in St Croix last weekend (Photo: OG)

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Officials in the office of US Virgin Islands Governor John de Jongh recently led public discussions focusing on the issue of public safety in St Croix.

Attorney Richard Evangelista, senior policy advisor to the Governor, convened the meeting in Frederiksted, which included hoteliers, restaurateurs and retailers at the Arthur Abel Complex.

“Public safety issues are one of the Territory’s biggest concerns, and a top priority for the Administration,” Evangelista said. “We recognize that different approaches are required to address the crime in our neighborhoods and downtown areas, and that a key element is communication and involvement by all.”

With crime a continuing issue in the US Virgin Islands (and the wider region), the Virgin Islands Police Department will reportedly be increasing lighting at the Frederiksted waterfront park and pier areas, along with augmenting security and police presence in other areas.

“This is the third time this group has met and each time we have had a frank and productive discussion on action items, accomplishments and next steps to create noticeable change and improvement,” he said.