The Community Integration Team (CIT) was formed with volunteers and leaders in the VIPD in response to the need for more community-oriented policing. Our purpose is to leverage resources, talents, knowledge and influence on law enforcement issues which affect the community and provide a contact point to obtain general advice on policing matters that affect the Territory. We are parents, neighbors and friends who represent you and your needs. The community-based approach to planning and problem-solving facilitates the goals of the VIPD. In addition, this approach significantly increases the quality of public service the VIPD can provide. The CIT brings its unique knowledge, experience and skills to complement the knowledge and skills of the VIPD to effectively provide the community with best practices, enforcement and public service. Our goals are public safety and accountability; our mission is to empower you and promote VI pride.

Officer Injured As Four Arson Arrests Made

by Bill Kossler, Oct. 31, 2008 -- Four individuals were arrested for arson and one police officer suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound in an incident Friday morning in Catherine's Rest on St. Croix." About 9 a.m. police responded to an arson call in Catherine's Rest." Assistant Police Commissioner Novelle Francis said at a press conference in Hannah's Rest Friday afternoon. "Events led to a situation where four individuals were arrested and one officer, Rafael Irizarry, sustained a single, self-inflicted gunshot wound. He lost a lot of blood, but he is in stable condition." Francis said. "We knew this morning it would be a hectic day, being it's Halloween."

Acting Police Chief Oakland Benta gave a blow-by-blow account of the morning's events. "Officers responded to a residence in Catherine's Rest that was engulfed in fire," he said. "Individuals were running away and officers gave chase.personnel also responded to the scene and were involved with the capture of the suspects, he said.