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May 31, 2007 – After being considered and debated in the Committee on Public Safety, Homeland Security, and Justice three times, Bill 27-0011, the much-debated "Crime Bill," was approved today by the Full Body during Legislative Session.
"The Bill provides over nine million dollars in funding to get the Police Department to the end of fiscal year 2007, said Senator Dowe, "this is critically needed," he emphasized.
"Not only that," continued Senator Dowe, "this bill also provides for hiring 150 police officers –75 in the St. Croix district and 75 in the St. Thomas-St. John district and offers non-retirement incentive bonuses to certain police officers."
The Bill also creates a Witness Protection Program, establishes a Cold Case Squad to investigate homicide cases 5 years and older and establishes towing rates for vehicles towed by the request of the VI Police Department.
"This bill made its way through the committee process and at the end of the day my colleagues agreed that it was legislation that would impact the entire territory and offered their support," said Senator Dowe.
"I want to thank my colleagues, Senators Norman Jn.Baptiste, Liston A. Davis, "Usie R. Richards, James A. Weber III, Carmen M. Wesselhoft, Celestino A. White Sr. and Alvin L. Williams for supporting this bill," the Senator said
"Now I am making a public plea to the Governor to sign this legislation into law," ended Senator Dowe.