ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI – Virgin Islands Premier and Minister of Finance, on behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands and his family, has joined the territory in expressing condolences to the family and loved ones of the late former Member of the House of Assembly, Mr Vernon E. Malone.
In a statement on May 7, 2024, the Premier said that while he was aware Mr Malone had been ill for some time, he was saddened to learn of his passing on Saturday, May 4, 2024.
“Mr Malone had an extensive Public Service career which began as a Pupil Teacher before moving on to his life-long career as a police officer. He joined the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) in 1968 as a Constable and rose through the ranks, serving as Corporal, Sergeant, Inspector, Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police.”
Dr Wheatley added that Mr Malone also had a stint in the Attorney General’s Chambers upon completion of his law degree from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. He said many in the Territory would recall the sense of pride when Mr Malone became the first [British] Virgin Islander to rise to the helm as Commissioner of Police in 1992.
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“Perhaps Mr Malone’s most notable accomplishments were those during his 10-year term as Commissioner of Police. He is credited with transforming the Police Force through his emphasis on higher education.”
Dr Wheatley said through his visionary style of leadership, Mr Malone opened up higher education opportunities, improved the benefits for officers, and also lifted the quality and effectiveness of policing in the Territory by establishing special and strategic units – particularly with respect to community policing and enhancing the capabilities of existing ones.
The Premier said Mr Malone was a remarkable individual whose ambition and accomplishments will continue to shine as an inspiration to Virgin Islanders for a very long time.
“In the passing of Mr Malone, the Virgin Islands has lost a true national icon. We pray for the comfort of his wife, Icis, son, Malcolm, his siblings and the extended Malone family,” Premier Wheatley added.
