Happy New Year from Crime Stoppers and law enforcement. Let’s make this year a safe one!
Unscrupulous individuals operating under the guise of a business commit sometimes crimes. Before you fall victim of such crimes, here are some tips and resources you should know.
The Federal Trade Commission, a consumer protection agency at the federal level, works to prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the marketplace. Its counterpart in the Virgin Islands is the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs. The DLCA issues business and professional licenses, ensures compliance with the territory’s licensing laws, and protects the health, safety and rights of consumers through assistance, education and enforcement of Virgin Islands consumer protection laws.
Its Consumer Affairs Division advises, guides and represents consumers regarding the filing of formal complaints against businesses and/or professions and attempts to resolve them. It is also responsible for the establishment and enforcement of weights and measurement standards in the Virgin Islands.
Within the Consumer Affairs Division is a separate Consumer Protection Services Unit, which is responsible for the development and implementation of consumer education programs and activities addressing consumer complaints, and monitoring business practices throughout the territory for compliance of consumer laws.
The Enforcement Division enforces consumer laws by inspecting all businesses to ensure compliance with Virgin Islands licensing laws. Additionally enforcement officers serve documents on behalf of the Legal Division and Boards and Commissions as needed. The division also regularly participates on task force and joint initiatives with Virgin Islands Police Department, the Office of the Governor, Department of Health, and private entities as needed.
Crime prevention is up to all of us. Be aware of your rights and resources. Stand up to protect and defend yourself with these available local and federal resources. Help make our islands a safer place to live by telling what you know about any crime.
Call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or go to www.CrimeStoppersUSVI.org. You can also text “USVI” plus your message to CRIMES (274637). Either of these methods will keep you anonymous.
