The Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) has issued a wanted notice for Tina Phillips, a Florida-born woman implicated in a first-degree assault case.

The VIPD has disseminated her photograph and detailed description, seeking public assistance in locating her.

Details of the Suspect:

• Name: Tina Phillips
• Race: Black
• Sex: Female
• Last known address: Simmonds Alley

Phillips is currently evading capture, and the community is urged to remain vigilant. The VIPD has provided a contact number for its Criminal Investigation Bureau at 774-2211 Ext 5577 for tips regarding her whereabouts. Authorities emphasize that harboring a fugitive is a criminal act.

Anyone who sees Tina Phillips or has pertinent information is urged to immediately call 911 or the Criminal Investigation Bureau at the provided extension. Prompt action and community cooperation are vital for her swift apprehension and to support the ongoing investigation.

Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett held a poignant reception this week to honor National Police Week, paying tribute to two fallen heroes from the U.S. Virgin Islands—Detective Delbert Phipps Jr. and Patrolman Lionel E. Isaac. These officers of the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD) lost their lives in the line of duty and will now be memorialized on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall.

“Their names will be forever engraved, and their integrity forever maintained,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “Our men and women of the Virgin Islands Police Department give their full measure of devotion, their bravery, resilience, and dedication to perform their duties faithfully, and make the ultimate sacrifice.”

The event was attended by VIPD Commissioner Ray Martinez, VIPD officers, and the family of Detective Phipps Jr. Reflecting on the occasion, Commissioner Martinez emphasized the importance of honoring the fallen officers and supporting their families.

“While today is a solemn time for us, today is a good time to see my officers smiling and celebrate the lives of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Isaac,” said Commissioner Martinez. “This provides us and the Phipps family the opportunity to know that we are not alone. As much as it pains us for our loss, they will not be forgotten. Standing as a police commissioner, I couldn’t be more proud to be here and pay homage to our brothers in arms.”

Denise Phipps, the mother of Detective Phipps Jr., shared her emotions during the reception, expressing both sorrow and gratitude for the recognition of her son’s sacrifice.

“I lost my son Detective Phipps on July 4, 2023. One of the worst days of my life,” said Denise Phipps. “I am honored, and it feels a bit bittersweet as they remember and honor my son. What a joy and sadness to see that his name is there.”

National Police Week serves as a time to honor law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and to recognize the service and sacrifice of all officers. The inclusion of Detective Phipps and Patrolman Isaac on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall ensures that their bravery and dedication will be remembered and honored for generations to come.

J. Benton Construction, a prominent leader in construction safety and innovation, is celebrating its 11th year of active participation in Construction Safety Week, observed from May 6-10, 2024, on St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John. This year’s theme, “Value Every Voice,” underscores J. Benton’s commitment to fostering a safety-first culture on all its projects.

Throughout the week, J. Benton Construction conducted numerous “Toolbox Talks” across its various job sites, including the Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute Interior Renovations at the Roy Lester Schneider Hospital on St. Thomas and the Walter I.M. Hodge Redevelopment on St. Croix. These sessions, which aligned with this year’s theme, concluded with quizzes and gift card awards to engage and reward staff for their safety knowledge and active participation.

Emphasizing safety and readiness, J. Benton implemented emergency evacuation drills at job sites territory-wide, including office staff, to ensure comprehensive preparedness across all levels of the company, according to a release issued Thursday.

In addition to these safety initiatives, J. Benton Construction showed appreciation for its team’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards by providing catered lunches throughout the week and distributing exclusive JBC-branded merchandise.

Construction Safety Week 2024 aims to empower individuals at all levels of a project to speak up and contribute to safety practices, striving for zero incidents and ensuring that every worker returns home safely each day.