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

Officer-Involved Shootings

BWC: Man grabs Minn. officer’s gun and fires it during struggle before fatal OIS

Rochester officers pleaded with the man to surrender before trying to arrest him by force; he resisted, grabbing an officer’s gun and pulling the trigger while it was still in the holster

March 27, 2026 11:53 AM

Legal

Mass. ex-cop shot by colleague while being served restraining order found not guilty

The judge cited reasonable doubt after conflicting testimony about whether Kelsey Fitzsimmons pointed a firearm at responding North Andover Officer Pat Noonan

March 26, 2026 04:23 PM

Legal

N.J. law limits face coverings for law enforcement, including federal immigration officers

The law bars most face coverings during enforcement and requires officers to present identification before detaining individuals

March 27, 2026 03:13 PM

FBI

Iran-linked hackers access FBI Director Kash Patel’s personal email account

The FBI said the material involved is historical in nature and does not include government information

March 27, 2026 02:11 PM

 · 

Sarah Roebuck

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.