Bryan convened first meeting of Virgin Islands Council on Human Trafficking

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. convened the first meeting of the Virgin Islands Council on Human Trafficking on Sept. 18, 2024, and appointed Deputy Attorney General Ian Clement as chairman, according to Government House.

Government House said council members said human trafficking had been taking place in the territory for years. The council was established to develop and coordinate a plan to provide services to victims, collect data on human trafficking in the Virgin Islands, promote public awareness, and coordinate prevention and victim-services training for government employees who may have recurring contact with victims or perpetrators.

According to Government House, the council includes representatives from the Department of Justice, Office of the Attorney General, Department of Human Services, Law Enforcement Planning Commission, Virgin Islands Criminal Victims Compensation Commission, and nongovernmental organizations that represent or provide services to victims. Members serve four-year terms.

Those attending the Sept. 18 meeting included Bryan, Clement, Virgin Islands Chief Counsel Richard Evangelista, Jason Marsh representing acting Police Commissioner Mario Brooks, Human Services Commissioner Averil George, Law Enforcement Planning Commission Director Moleto Smith, St. Croix Administrator Samuel Sanes, Peace Officer Standards and Training Director Gleston McIntosh, Police Lt. Deborah Hodge, Justice Department victim advocate Ruth Warren, Women’s Coalition Executive Director Clema Lewis, and Family Resource Center Executive Director Anya Stuart.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-convenes-first-meeting-of-council-on-human-trafficking/