Constable Joel Robinson named top cop as Area 5 extends winning streak
Four consecutive victories reflect a culture of preparation and mentorship
Constable Joel Robinson of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) St. Catherine North Division has been named the Chairman’s Award winner of the 2026 LASCO, JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards, earning a cash prize of JM$175,000.00 and extending Area 5’s remarkable run of consecutive victories in the competition to four years.
Robinson, who serves as a School Resource Officer in the JCF’s Community Safety and Security Unit, emerged from a field of six finalists recognised for their contributions to policing and public service. His achievement also earned him a promotion to Corporal announced by Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake.
While Robinson was reluctant to disclose exactly what it takes to secure the coveted title, he offered a glimpse into the mindset behind his preparation.
“I am ecstatic, elated, I am overjoyed and giving God all the glory and praise. It was a pressuring process, but without giving away too much of the secret, it is about being well-rounded in all areas. Train hard, win easy. To young men and women, if you wish to join the Jamaica Constabulary Force, don’t sit at home waiting for the opportunity. Just go for it, but please come with a heart willing to serve,” Robinson said.
His victory continues Area Five’s winning streak, reinforcing the area’s strong showing in the competition over the past four years.
For outgoing Police of the Year Corporal Shantel Powell, however, the results reflect something deeper than a winning strategy. Area Five’s success, she explained, is rooted in a culture that makes preparation, professional development and excellence part of the everyday work of its officers.
“The feeling is one of exhilaration, support, love and commitment. For us, Top Cop is not a trophy to be added to our collection. It represents the standard of the men and women who serve this area,” Powell said.
She noted that Area 5 does not wait until awards season to begin preparing its officers, but instead invests in developing them throughout the year.
“We have institutionalised Top Cop. We don’t start preparing when it is the season. The factory is still open and actively functioning,” she added, expressing hope the approach would be replicated across the JCF’s other policing areas.
Early intervention
As a School Resource Officer, Robinson works closely with students, teachers and school administrators to promote safer school environments, support conflict resolution and provide mentorship and guidance. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his work with young people with his responsibilities primarily focused on identifying at-risk students and addressing factors that can contribute to violence, bullying, gang involvement and other antisocial behaviour.
Beyond his day-to-day policing duties, Robinson has contributed to initiatives aimed at early intervention and youth development, including the Strategic Workshop on Anti-Gang (SWAGA), which seeks to guide young people who are troubled or at risk of gang involvement towards purpose, discipline and hope. He has also been instrumental in the implementation of Operation Learn Not Loiter, a programme that encourages students to remain engaged in school while reducing opportunities for fights and gang-related activities.
Robinson’s approach to school policing places emphasis on relationship-building, communication and positive engagement with the communities he serves. He also serves as Assistant Welfare Liaison Officer for the St. Catherine North Division, supporting initiatives to strengthen relationships between the police and the public.
According to Ce’zanne Chin, Corporate Communications Coordinator, Robinson distinguished himself during the selection process through his level of preparation and strategic approach to is work.
“Walking with a comprehensive portfolio supported by clear execution plans for his projects, he demonstrated strong organisational skills, communicated confidently and showed a calculated, strategic approach to his work,” Chin said.
She added, “It was evident that he had benefited from the guidance and mentorship of his Area 5 supervisor and colleagues. His ability to think ahead, plan purposefully and translate ideas into action speaks to his potential for continued growth and impact in the JCF.”
Sergeant Ricardo McCalpin of the Non-Geographic Formation secured the first runner-up (second place) position, receiving JM$125,000.00. Constable Nicholas Linton of Area Four placed second runner-up (third place), earning JM$100,000.00.
Sergeant Darrall Ellis of Area One was named third runner-up, while Corporal Shevana Burns of Area Three and Sergeant Saneisha Johnson-Watkis of Area Two placed fourth and fifth runner-up, respectively. Each of the three officers will receive JM$75,000.00.
In addition to Robinson’s promotion to Corporal, Commissioner Blake announced the promotion of Linton to Corporal and Burns to Sergeant. The three sergeants among the finalists — McCalpin, Ellis, and Johnson-Watkis — will participate in a developmental course for inspector roles, providing an opportunity to further strengthen their leadership and professional capabilities.
The six finalists represent the dedication and service of JCF members who work across different formations and communities to support public safety and national development.
Through the LASCO, JCF Saluting Our Heroes programme, the awards continue to highlight officers whose contributions extend beyond the call of duty, underscoring the importance of professionalism, community engagement and service to the Jamaican people.
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