New Area Five Commander Pledges to Bring Best Practices Learned to Position

Newly installed Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Christopher Phillips, will be bringing all his training and experience to bear in his new role as Commander of the Area Five Police Division.

Speaking at a recent function at the Greater Portmore Police Station, where he was honoured for sterling leadership of the St. Catherine South Division, the Acting ACP said he intends to continue to work closely with citizens and other stakeholders to promote peace and ensure the safety and security of communities.

He said that serving the St. Catherine South Division was a “wonderful experience” and he will take the successes to the area level, which comprises the entire parish, St. Thomas and sections of St. Andrew.

“Given this opportunity, it is my intention to bring those best practices across the area. I want community engagement, I want to see public education, stakeholder empowerment, and I want [excellent] law enforcement,” he added.

Over the last three years, Acting ACP Phillips has served the St. Catherine Police Division, first as a Superintendent, and then as a Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP).

He will now be operating out of the Area 5 Constant Spring headquarters.

Acting ACP Phillips called on the officers of St. Catherine South to continue to uphold high standards and ideals, noting that that he is proud of what they have been able to achieve together.

The division comprises Greater Portmore, Bridgeport, Caymanas, Waterford, and the Hellshire police post, and Central Village, Old Harbour, and Old Harbour Bay.

“Your commitment to our shared vision is so inspiring, and I am proud of the progress that we have made. What you see of me now is an investment by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (CF). I value people input and pay keen attention in how I interact with everyone; it does not matter your rank,” Acting ACP Phillips said.

Describing the Acting ACP as “an amazing divisional commander”, Deputy Superintendent of Police, Michael Campbell, reported that under his leadership, the St. Catherine South Division experienced continued reduction in major crimes.

He said the aesthetics of the headquarters was improved, a wellness centre was established, so, too, an empowerment space with motivational quotes.

The facility was opened to schools for Read Across Jamaica activities.

“We have benefited tremendously by having you at the helm. Your guidance has enabled the achievement of remarkable milestones and we have grown as individuals, and as a team under your leadership,” the Deputy Superintendent said.

ACP Karina Powell-Hood, in her remarks, said the promotion of Acting ACP Phillips is “just the start of greater things to come,” urging him to continue to excel and maintain his energy and focus.

Chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation, Sergeant Arlene McBean, said the senior officer not only impacted the rank-and-file members of the Force, but the entire community in which he served.