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Testimony on Bill 36-0009 November 14, 2025 Good morning, Senator Avery Lewis, Chairperson of the Committee on Government Operations, Veterans Affairs, and Consumer Protection, other committee members, as well as senators of the 36th Legislature, ladies and gentlemen present, and those in the viewing and listening audience. I am Delia Thomas, Virgin Islands Inspector General. I am here today to offer my full support for the passage of Bill No. 36-0009, a resolution honoring and commending Mr. Steven van Beverhoudt Sr. for his dedicated service and numerous contributions to the people of the Virgin Islands. From 1989 to 2021, as the Virgin Islands Inspector General, Mr. van Beverhoudt's tenure has been characterized by his unwavering dedication to enhancing government operations. He was responsible for issuing at least 74 reports and making 690 recommendations to various departments and agencies aimed at improving government operations. The investigations initiated and supported under his tenure resulted in at least 354 counts and 14 convictions. The types of government fraud charges filed included bribery, conflict of Interest, conspiracy, conversion of government funds, conversion of government property, embezzlement, extortion, forgery, fraudulent claims against the government, grand larceny, mail fraud, money laundering, obtaining money by false pretense, payroll fraud, perjury, program fraud, and wire fraud. All of which demonstrated his commitment to government integrity and the well-being of our community. Additionally, his commitment to the future of the Virgin Islands Inspector General's Office is evident, as he is responsible for six current employees obtaining their certifications as Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE). This has contributed to ensuring the high-quality service he has set as an example. Furthermore, as is evident to everyone who traverses the lower Main Street and Savan area, he took pride in the physical upkeep of the government-owned building that occupies the Office of the Virgin Islands Inspector General. The exterior of the building serves the community positively, and the interior provides a safe and positive environment for employees. As an employee who joined the Office in 1989, I know Mr. van Beverhoudt to be a humble person, committed to his profession, and dedicated to the progress of his employees. He is not one to ask or expect such an honor. However, this is an honor well deserved. Also, the timing could not have been more perfect, as International Fraud Awareness Week starts in two days, on November 16, 2025. As a Virgin Islander, I am proud. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of future generations learning about exemplary individuals in our community who attended the same schools, churches, and community centers, thereby providing them with inspiration and a sense of hope for their own futures. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to be here today. This concludes my testimony.