Statement by

Premier of the Virgin Islands

Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley

5 May, 2024

Condolences on the Passing of Mr. Vernon E. Malone

On behalf of the Government of the Virgin Islands and on my own behalf and that of my family, I join with the Territory in expressing condolences to the family and loved ones of former Member of the House of Assembly, Mr. Vernon E. Malone, on his passing.

Even though I am aware that Mr. Malone had been ill for some time, I was saddened to learn of his passing on Saturday, 4^th May, 2024.

Mr. Malone had an extensive Public Service career which began as a Pupil Teacher before moving on to his life-long career as a police officer. He joined the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) in 1968 as a Constable and rose through the ranks, serving as Corporal, Sergeant, Inspector, Deputy Commissioner and Commissioner of Police. Mr. Malone also had a stint in the Attorney General’s Chambers upon the completion of his law degree from the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. Many in the Territory will recall the sense of pride when Mr. Malone became the first Virgin Islander to take up the helm as Commissioner of Police in 1992.

Perhaps Mr. Malone’s most notable accomplishments were those during his 10-year term as Commissioner of Police. He is credited with transforming the Police Force through his emphasis on higher education.  Through his visionary style of leadership, he opened up higher education opportunities and improved the benefits for officers. He lifted the quality and effectiveness of policing in the Territory by establishing special and strategic units – particularly with respect to community policing, and enhancing the capabilities of existing ones. Mr. Malone transformed the RVIPF and raised the bar in ways that were unprecedented up to that time.

In 2007, Mr. Malone was successful in his first bid to become a Member of the House of Assembly as a Virgin Islands Party candidate, having received the second highest number of votes among the at-large candidates. He served faithfully until 2011, lending his voice during various debates in the House of Assembly, especially.

Mr. Malone was also a successful businessman. As a trained lawyer, he was the managing director of his law firm, Vernon E. Malone and Company. He was also an accomplished real estate agent with many years in the field of real estate and property management. Together with his wife, Icis, they have owned and managed Icis Villas in Brewer’s Bay from which they have hosted various local events and served a large number of tourists over the years. 

He was a remarkable individual whose ambition and accomplishments will continue to shine as an inspiration to Virgin Islanders for a very long time. Throughout his career, Mr. Malone was driven by a passion to elevate himself to greater heights, and to lift those around him.

In the passing of Mr. Malone, the Virgin Islands has lost a true national icon. We pray for the comfort of his wife, Icis, son, Malcom, his siblings and the extended Malone family.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.