ST. THOMAS, USVI – The Virgin Islands Police Department - utilizing intelligence, high visibility patrol, and technology – initiated “Operation Silent Night,” an Old Year’s/New Year’s initiative focused on decreasing the discharge of illegal firearms, referred to as Celebratory Gunfire, on December 31, 2021. VIPD officers, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies – DPNR, DLCA, Superior Court, and VIPA – were stationed in specific areas of concern.

Police Commissioner Designee Ray Martinez, Assistant Police Commissioner Mario Brooks, and St. Thomas/St. John/Water Island District Chief of Police Barrington Thomas, Sr. pose with firearms that were confiscated in “Operation Silent Night” during New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day.

In the St. Thomas District, 11 firearms (3 assault rifles, 8 semi-automatic handguns), and hundreds of rounds were confiscated; and two individuals were arrested on various firearm charges.