Press Releases

Following news that personal photographs and a private family video that had been shared between Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett and her husband, Jonathan Buckney-Small, were illegally obtained and disseminated via the internet, the Congresswoman issued the following statement:

“The theft and distribution of these personal images via the internet marks a new low in Virgin Islands politics. I am shocked and deeply saddened that someone would stoop to such a level as to invade my marriage and the love of my family in an attempt to besmirch me politically,” said Congresswoman Plaskett.

“Private photographs shared between my husband and me, as well as a private playful video of our family, including one of our children, were illegally obtained and disseminated via the internet. To say my family and I are greatly upset would be a tremendous understatement. As a mother I am outraged that one of my children was exploited in such a way. The theft and dissemination of these images via the internet is a shockingly disgusting invasion of my family’s and my privacy - not to mention criminal acts in violation of both territorial and federal law,” added the Congresswoman.

The Congresswoman’s staff confirmed that the theft and dissemination of the images have been under review by federal law enforcement officials and that investigations have been underway since shortly after learning of the illegal acts.

“Our office is currently working with the Capitol Police and the FBI and I can confirm that an active investigation is underway to find out who committed this crime and anyone else who may have been involved” stated Plaskett Chief of Staff Jerome Murray.

It was also noted, that the fact that the illegal activity had taken place two weeks before an upcoming Primary Election was not being considered a coincidence. “The fact that whoever is behind this type of criminal behavior decided to time it just before Virgin Islanders will be voting is not lost on us, while we don’t believe it will have whatever effect was intended, it is a sad commentary on the level to which some will stoop,” said Murray.

The Congresswoman concluded, “This incident shows that there are some people who will go to any length to degrade a woman who refuses to play their games and will try to besmirch my good name by any means necessary. I have a message for the criminals who perpetrated these heinous acts:  I will not go away. I know the people of our Virgin Islands are disgusted by individuals who would try to destroy families for political gain. I ask Virgin Islanders to stand with me as the authorities continue to investigate this matter.”

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