Phillips now acting ACP

In an inspiring journey through the ranks of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Christopher Phillips has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to public service, transforming the St Catherine South Police Division and now stepping up as the acting assistant commissioner of police (ACP) in charge of Area Five.

Three years ago, Phillips was transferred to St Catherine South as the superintendent in charge. His rapid rise to the rank of senior superintendent is testament to his exceptional leadership and dedication. This week, colleagues and stakeholders honoured Phillips for his approach to policing, celebrating his numerous achievements in crime reduction and community engagement.

Phillips’ immediate predecessor, Deputy Superintendent of Police Michael Campbell, praised him as a visionary leader who espoused professionalism in every aspect.

“As we mark the end of his tenure, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible leadership, dedication, and vision that he brought to St Catherine South division, creating history,” Campbell noted.

Campbell outlined several initiatives and changes Phillips brought to the division. These ranged from aesthetic improvements at the police headquarters and staff quarters, and establishing a wellness corner for officers to unwind and an empowerment corner to boost morale. Phillips also implemented virtual town tall meetings to engage stakeholders and launched operational initiatives with proven success.

Notably, his emphasis on community policing brought the police closer to the communities they serve, fostering trust and cooperation. Initiatives like encouraging training for young people through HEART/NSTA and organising cultural competitions for community youths exemplified his holistic approach to crime prevention.

The tribute ceremony, held at the police headquarters in Portmore, was attended by notable figures, including Portmore Mayor Leon Thomas, Spanish Town Mayor Norman Scott, and member of parliament for St Catherine South East Robert Miller.

All three lauded Phillips’ administrative prowess, crime-fighting skills, and community involvement, crediting him with significant crime reductions in volatile areas of the parish.

‘Doesn’t feel like work’

Phillips, now operating out of Area Five’s Constant Spring headquarters, was generous in his response, crediting his success to the hard work of the men and women under his command and the unwavering support of stakeholders.

“I have always wanted to be a police officer,” he shared. “I am coming from a family where both parents were police officers, so doing something you love it really doesn’t feel like work, and I am happy I got the opportunity.”

Reflecting on his career, Phillips acknowledged the unpredictable nature of his journey.

“I really don’t know, but I am still trying to probe into who really was making the decision to move me from the college and send me down to Clarendon as an operations officer, and then somebody got another vision and sent me to St Catherine South as the commanding officer,” he declared, noting he had no prior experience as a divisional commander at the time.

He credited the JCF for investing in him over the years.

“What you see of me now is an investment by the JCF, even though the road was not an easy one,” he added, recalling a missed training opportunity due to some doubting his potential.

“But along the way, you have good Samaritans who mean you well, looked out for you, and ensured that they create that pathway for you,” he stated, while acknowledging some of these individuals by name.

Committed to maintaining his high energy and dedication, Phillips has already displayed his motivational skills in St Thomas, where he recently delivered an inspiring speech to officers. As he embarks on his new role, the legacy of his transformative leadership in St Catherine South sets a high standard for community-focused policing in Jamaica.

ruddy.mathison@gleanerjm.com