The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Virgin Islands Police Department (VIPD), in coordination with federal law enforcement partners, actively responded to recent threats targeting schools in the St. Croix District. All public schools in the St. Croix District were closed on Monday, August 25, 2025, out of an abundance of caution to protect students, faculty, and staff. Heightened security measures were also implemented across both districts, with VIPD carrying out precautionary searches in the St. Thomas–St. John District. Schools in the ST. John District remained open, as no active threats were reported there.
DOJ Attorney General Gordon C. Rhea and VIPD Commissioner Mario Brooks strongly denounced these actions. “Threats of this nature are unacceptable, and we are outraged that anyone would attempt to put our children and school communities at risk,” they said. “The safety and well-being of students is our top priority. DOJ, VIPD, and federal partners are working tirelessly to identify and hold accountable those responsible.”
The VIPD cleared all St. Croix schools to reopen on Tuesday, August 26, 2025. High schools across the STTJ District were also thoroughly searched and deemed safe. With school monitors back on duty across St. Croix, full operations resumed, supported by continued heightened security measures in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies.
The joint investigation remains active, and officials state they hope to determine the source of the threats soon. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 27, 2025
Sandra Goomansingh
Media Relations Director
(340) 774-5666 ext. 10105
Email: sandra.goomansingh@doj.vi.gov