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

Corrections

Former Ill. deputy convicted of killing Sonya Massey dies in prison, lawyer says

Sean Grayson had been diagnosed with colon cancer before Massey’s killing, and his attorneys said at his sentencing that the disease had spread to his liver and lungs

August 24, 2026 09:05 AM

Investigations

Body of wife wanted in killing of Mass. officer believed to have been found, police say

Karen Solomon, co-founder of First H.E.L.P., had been wanted in connection with the death of Worcester Officer Kurt Solomon, a department veteran of more than 30 years

August 24, 2026 05:13 PM

Officer Misconduct / Internal Affairs

2 Phoenix officers arrested and fired, accused in violent, unreported traffic stop

Officers Antonio Felix and Luis Vasquez were arrested on charges including aggravated assault and kidnapping, Police Chief Matt Giordano said

August 24, 2026 09:16 AM

Police Heroes

‘One of our own’: Conn. law enforcement rallies around 10-year-old battling cancer

Collin Genetti-Moore has loved everything to do with police since he dressed as a cop for Halloween at age 2; 24 law enforcement agencies gathered to honor Collin with a ceremony and parade

August 23, 2026 07:00 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.