Governor Bryan Nominates Gordon Rhea as USVI’s New Attorney General

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced the nomination of Gordon Rhea as the new Attorney General for the U.S. Virgin Islands during a press conference on Monday. Highlighting Rhea’s extensive background, Governor Bryan described him as a candidate with unmatched legal expertise and service record. Rhea’s educational journey includes degrees from Indiana University, Harvard University, and Stanford Law School.

In his early career, Rhea distinguished himself as a criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles, later contributing his expertise in Washington D.C. at the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence Activities. His professional tenure in the Virgin Islands spans over 40 years, initially serving as an assistant U.S. Attorney before moving into private practice.

Governor Bryan emphasized Rhea’s pivotal role in leading high-profile cases that have shaped the legal landscape in the territory. “His firm addressed some of the most significant legal challenges our community has encountered, such as landmark litigation against prominent industrial corporations concerning toxic exposures and environmental damage. These actions have protected our workforce and natural resources for future generations,” Governor Bryan stated. He specifically noted Rhea’s leadership in securing the largest civil jury verdict in the territory’s history, crucial for public health improvements.

Responding to his nomination, Rhea expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity to serve as the Attorney General. Addressing potential conflicts of interest, particularly Rhea’s prior representation of a defendant in the Virgin Islands’ lawsuit against Jeffrey Epstein’s estate, Governor Bryan reassured that Rhea could recuse himself from any related cases to avoid conflicts.

Governor Bryan also shared his expectations for utilizing funds from the Epstein lawsuit, earmarked for the Justice Department. He expressed hope that under Rhea’s leadership, and pending confirmation, the funds would be used to enhance anti-trafficking initiatives and policies, pending legislative approval, which Rhea’s predecessor deemed necessary.