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Testimony on Bill No. 36-0191 Good Morning/Afternoon Everyone, My name is Maria Colon, and I am a Police Captain with the Virgin Islands Police Department, currently assigned to the Training Bureau as the Officer in Charge. I am both honored and deeply saddened to provide testimony today. This moment is emotional and challenging. While I understand and respect the honorable intent of Bill No. 36-0191, the reality is that Detective Delberth I. Phipps, Jr. is no longer with us in physical form. For those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him, we can almost hear him humbly saying, “Captain, I’m good. I don’t need all of this. I just love my job, and I like to train.” I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Retired Detective Corporal Delberth Phipps, Sr., and Ms. Denise Phipps, for allowing us the privilege of knowing and working with your son. He became family to us. The members of the Training Bureau will forever be grateful for the countless hours he devoted—day and night—to training, mentoring, and uplifting others. I would also like to thank Senator Bolques and all those who support this measure. Respectfully, it is my sincere belief that it would be more fitting if the entire Hospital Gade Road, which runs south to north from Veterans Drive Highway to the Maude Proudfoot Drive Intersection, is renamed in honor of Detective Delberth I. Phipps, Jr., as a lasting tribute to his service and sacrifice. Detective Phipps deserved the entire roadway, and not just a portion of it. Naming the entire roadway in his name is a meaningful; contribution to his legacy and the sacrifice he made. Detective Phipps is a fallen hero of the Virgin Islands Police Department, who gave his life in the line of duty on July 4, 2023. This street will forever bear his name—not merely as a marker on a map, but as a powerful symbol of courage, dedication, and selfless service. Each time someone travels this road, they will be reminded of a man who devoted his life to protecting others and strengthening the foundation of law enforcement in our territory. Detective Phipps served with honor and distinction. He was a Certified Instructor in Firearms, OC Spray, Impact Weapons, TASER, and Use of Force, he helped shape the professionalism, discipline, and sound judgment of countless officers. His influence extends far beyond the classroom and continues to live on through the officers he trained and the lives they now protect. To his colleagues, he was a trusted professional and a brother in blue. To the Police Training Academy, he was a mentor and a leader. To his loved ones, he was a cherished son, a father, a family member, and friend—affectionately known as “Buju.” While his loss is deeply felt, his legacy is enduring. By naming this street in the honor of Detective Delberth I. Phipps, Jr., we ensure that his service and sacrifice will never be forgotten. This dedication stands as a public promise that his commitment to duty, integrity, and community will continue to guide us. To the Phipps family, please accept our deepest respect and gratitude. Know that his name, his service, and his sacrifice will forever remain woven into the fabric of this community and the history of the Virgin Islands Police Department. May this street serve as a constant reminder that heroes walk among us— and that some give everything so that others may live in safety. On Behalf of the Entire Training Staff thank you for this opportunity, Capt. Maria Colon Training Bureau OIC