Permanent Restraining Order Based on an Act of Domestic Violence in the Virgin Islands

In the Virgin Islands, a violence permanent restraining order (PRO) based on an act of domestic violence may result, inter alia, in the temporary loss of custody of one's children, the loss of possession of one's residence, and the restriction of one's movement. See 16 V.I.C. 97(b). Additionally, a defendant subject to a domestic violence restraining order loses the right to possess a firearm. See 18 U.S.C. 922(g)(8). Moreover, beyond constituting contempt, violation of the PRO automatically constitutes a crime of domestic violence carrying a punishment of up to 180 days incarceration and a fine of up to $ 5,000. See 16 V.I.C. 97(c), (e).