Va. police officer gets standing ovation for America’s Got Talent performance

By Joanna Putman
Police1

RICHMOND, Va. — Police Officer Mervin Mayo captivated the audience and judges on America’s Got Talent with his moving voice, Billboard reported.

Trending

Legal

N.J. court rules that officers previously terminated for using cannabis off duty can be reinstated

The court ruled that the Jersey City officers’ terminations violated state law; the officers had admitted to using legally regulated cannabis off duty

May 11, 2026 11:02 AM

Arrests and Sentencing

Armed Marine vet helps Mass. officers take down gunman firing rounds erratically

The Marine veteran and a Massachusetts State Police trooper shot the suspect, stopping him from firing shots in the middle of Cambridge’s Memorial Drive

May 12, 2026 09:55 AM

Investigations

2 Mich. officers threaten to leave department after city votes down LPR contract

The officers said Clawson’s decision to reject a contract with Flock Safety removes a tool used to identify suspects, locate stolen vehicles and support investigations

May 12, 2026 09:33 AM

Arrests and Sentencing

BWC: Driver fleeing traffic stop strikes NYPD officer, is arrested after getting stuck at dead end

Officers stopped the vehicle during an early-morning car meetup; after initially stopping for the officers, the suspect fled, striking an officer on his left side

May 11, 2026 10:28 AM

Mayo, who serves with the Richmond Police Department, received four enthusiastic yeses and a standing ovation for his rendition of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud,” according to the report.

Mayo shared his personal story before performing, speaking about his challenging upbringing in Richmond’s housing projects and how a police officer named Curtis Simmons helped steer him away from a life of crime, according to the report.

“I’ve seen more murders as a child than I have as a police officer,” Mayo revealed, explaining his motivation to become a police officer and mentor.

Encouraged by his wife Michelle, who is the director of school counseling for Richmond Public Schools, Mayo decided to audition for America’s Got Talent. His performance was not just a song but a tribute to his wife and their shared journey, according to the report.

To follow Mayo’s journey on America’s Got Talent, tune in on Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC or stream the next day on Peacock.