ACP Christopher Phillips’ rise through the ranks | A tale of dedication and unrelenting passion

Phillips' foundation in leadership was laid early. Growing up in Clarendon, he excelled academically, earning a spot at Clarendon College as well as a year in sixth form at Glenmuir High. There, his natural leadership abilities emerged — earning him the nickname ‘Monitor’ for his time as a class monitor. In addition to academics, he was a well-rounded student, representing his school in athletics while actively engaged in clubs such as Drama, Red Cross, and 4-H.

Despite his early interest in joining the police force, his mother — herself a member of the now defunct Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) — urged him to pursue higher education first. Committed to both honouring her wishes and developing himself further, Phillips enrolled at Mico University College, where he obtained a diploma in education, specializing in History and Library Studies. During his time there, he further honed his leadership skills, serving as Student Council President, Student of the Year, and Valedictorian.

“I would credit most of what people are seeing now and acknowledge my ability for leadership to those early exposures which pulled me out of my shell from being that shy youngster to asserting myself for leadership,” he shared.

Phillips embarked on a career in education, teaching English and Social Studies at Kemps Hill High School before moving to Hayes Primary and Junior High as a Teacher Librarian. His journey continued at Garvey Maceo High School, where he balanced teaching history with pursuing a degree in Human Resource Management at the University of the Commonwealth Caribbean (UCC).

Although Phillips dedicated five years to teaching, shaping young minds in the classroom never truly fulfilled him. Deep down, his true calling remained in law enforcement. He yearned for the dynamic, hands-on nature of police work — a career he had always envisioned for himself. The structured environment of the classroom could not satisfy his deep-seated desire to serve and protect his community.

“Those early days sacrifices when I was doing my first degree and had to travel from Gravey Maceo High to Kingston three days per week, gave me the opportunity to join the ISCF,” said Phillips who was recently confirmed to the rank of ACP.

He got his heart’s desire when the ISCF introduced a graduate entry programme. Phillips seized the chance, enduring intensive training alongside regular constables and ultimately distinguishing himself as the sole officer in his batch and was appointed Assistant Commander. This marked the beginning of a career that would see him take on increasingly complex leadership roles within the force.

From his early stationing at Darling Street Police Station in Kingston to his leadership roles in Manchester and Clarendon, Phillips quickly distinguished himself as a strategic thinker and decisive leader. His background in education proved invaluable, leading to his appointment as an adjunct lecturer at the National Police College of Jamaica (NPCJ).

Former Custos of Clarendon, William Shagoury, who worked closely with Phillips, spoke highly of his character. “He is a young man going places, he is a man with integrity, he is bright, honest, and fearless. He will always do what is in the best interest of the JCF and for the people of Jamaica. He was a teacher here, went to school here, he is a true Clarendonian. I have seen the path he has been on, and I can only say that we need more people like Chris in the JCF,” Shagoury told Old Harbour News.

Never one to settle, Phillips pursued a master’s degree in Workforce Education and Development at the University of Technology, Jamaica (UTech) while continuing his rise through the force. When the ISCF merged with the JCF in 2014, he transitioned seamlessly, becoming Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) and later serving in Kingston East’s operations portfolio. His commitment to professional development saw him complete multiple command courses, earning the ‘Best at Leadership’ award and graduating as valedictorian.

Phillips' work ethic and leadership skills earned him a reputation as an officer who could balance discipline with mentorship. He was instrumental in training programmes and strategic initiatives, including a prestigious overseas training course in Honduras. His performance there led to an invitation to return as a course director — an honour rarely extended to JCF participants at the time.

His upward trajectory continued as he took command of the St. Catherine South Division and later earned a promotion to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP). He topped the SSP Qualifying Examination, further cementing his place among the JCF’s elite leadership.

Longtime colleague Superintendent Hopton Nicholson describes Phillips as a leader who empowers those around him. “Christopher is very interactive and loves to teach and also learn,” Nicholson said. “He is a ‘professional workaholic’ who always finds solutions to issues. He is not afraid to do trial and error and take calculated chances.”

Beyond the force, Phillips’ influence extends into his personal life. His sister, Michelle Lindo, speaks of his unwavering loyalty and work ethic, stating: “At times, he can be a bit ‘strong-headed,’ but always for the right reasons.”

“His strong work ethic and determination to succeed have always been the driving force in his life,” she adds. “You can always count on him to keep his promises… He has always tried to make a difference in people’s lives, and I am truly happy for him. I knew he was destined for greatness, and this promotion proves his hard work and dedication to service.”

Despite the accolades, Phillips remains grounded, reflecting on the hurdles he has had to overcome — including organizational discrimination. Yet, he has used every challenge as fuel for growth, proving that resilience and purpose can drive true change.

Now, as an Assistant Commissioner of Police, his vision extends beyond personal success. The Old Harbour resident sees policing not just as a job but as a calling, one that demands unwavering commitment to the people of Jamaica.

“I would love to see a time when Jamaica’s crime rate is so low that citizens feel safe again. I think I have much more to offer and really help to build my country. I love policing, it’s like a hobby for me right now. I don’t feel burdened, so I will keep doing what I have to do to the best of my ability,” assured Phillips.