St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) proudly hosted its third Cadet Program Ceremony on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at the St. Croix Educational Complex, recognizing and celebrating the dedication and achievements of its participating youth.
This year’s cohort included students from the St. Croix Educational Complex and St. Croix Central High School. The ceremony highlighted the cadets’ commitment, growth, and successful completion of the program, which is designed to build awareness of careers in law enforcement while strengthening community engagement.
The VIPD Cadet Program is a structured youth development and pre-professional initiative aimed at engaging young residents of the United States Virgin Islands. The program provides participants with valuable training and preparation for future careers in law enforcement, while also fostering personal development, discipline, and leadership skills.
Through hands-on experiences, cadets actively participate in community service and gain insight into policing and public safety. The program serves as a recruitment tool for the VIPD, targeting high school students with a strong interest in law enforcement careers. Upon graduation and reaching the age of 18, participants may be offered positions within the department, providing a pathway toward eventual entry into the VIPD Police Academy.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Virgin Islands Police Department and the Department of Education (21st Century Program), working together to create meaningful opportunities for youth while building a pipeline for future law enforcement professionals in the territory.
The Virgin Islands Police Department extends its sincere congratulations to the following cadets:
Lucianick Alexander
Maleigha Bannis
Je’Quan Barnes
Ke’Mykah Barnes
Catrice Benjamin
Yarelis Bermudez
Jealynneth Cepeda
Jahmal Christian
Cecilia Commabatch
Linroy Forde
Richard James
Mah’Kaijah Jean
Kymani Richards
Jaylin Velazquez
The VIPD remains committed to investing in programs that strengthen community ties, promote civic responsibility, and create positive pathways for the territory’s youth.
The next Cadet Program graduation ceremony will be held on May 18, 2026, on St. Thomas, with nine graduates from Ivanna Eudora Kean High School.
For more information on the Cadet Program, please contact Ms. Carol Cuffy, Director of Community Affairs at 340-774-2211.
