The Virgin Islands Legislature’s Committee on Ethical Conduct has recommended a formal hearing into allegations against Senator-At-Large Angel Bolques Jr., following a two-month investigation into claims of workplace misconduct. The committee’s advisory opinion, released Friday, indicates that sufficient evidence was found to warrant further proceedings.
The investigation was initiated after a formal complaint was filed on March 26, alleging workplace harassment, financial mismanagement, and the creation of a hostile work environment by Sen. Bolques. The committee, chaired by Senate Vice President Kenneth L. Gittens and comprising Sens. Dwayne M. DeGraff, Novelle E. Francis Jr., Carla J. Joseph, and Kurt A. Vialet, was originally expected to deliver its findings by April 25. However, the deadline was extended to May 30 to allow for a thorough and impartial review.
Senate President Milton Potter, who appointed the committee, recused himself from the investigation to maintain its independence. In a recent interview with the Source, he emphasized the Legislature’s responsibility to handle such complaints seriously and ensure a structured, impartial process that allows all parties to be heard.
The Committee on Ethical Conduct has previously addressed similar matters, including the 2021 review of a complaint against Sen. Marvin Blyden for violating COVID-19 quarantine protocols and the 2022 investigation of sexual misconduct allegations against then-Sen. Steven Payne Sr., who was ultimately expelled from the Legislature. Bolques was appointed to fill the vacant Senator-At-Large seat following Payne’s removal.
The committee’s recommendation for a formal hearing marks a significant escalation in the proceedings. A Statement of Allegations is being prepared, and a hearing is expected to take place within two to three weeks. The outcome of the hearing could have implications not only for Bolques but also for the Senate’s broader handling of internal ethics complaints.
Bolques, who was appointed to the Legislature in July 2022 and subsequently elected to continue serving, has been involved in various legislative efforts, including initiatives on workforce development, clean energy, and youth advocacy.
St. Croix Source
Local news
