Mark Collins began to ‘stray’ during tenure as CoP- Jacqueline E. Vanterpool
Vanterpool, who was a guest on Talking Points on Monday, July 14, 2025, said the former CoP began his tenure “quite well”.
“But as his time went along, you know he kind of drifted, cause when changes come, it's not everyone who wants to accept changes.”
ACP Vanterpool explained that being in the role right now, she has the responsibility to make changes, something that happens almost weekly, adding that she gets “flak” and “opposition” too.
Mark strayed along the way
Ms Vanterpool continued that leaders must be comfortable with the decisions they make.
“You share [with] the commanders why you made that decision, and that is what helps me. But it's not everyone in the camp [who] still accept the decision that was made, and hence as Mark went along the way, you know he tend to stray.”
ACP Vanterpool also said being able to listen to the advice of members of the command team is also vital towards success as the Commissioner of Police.
“When your command team speak to you, [it] doesn't matter whether you're on top; you have to listen to your command team when they give you advice.
She added that under Collins’ leadership, some officers began challenging the command team.
“That is what caused the major, major challenges for Mark because a lot of officers, especially the PWA, they started challenging certain decisions that were made…Nothing is wrong with making decisions as a leader, but you must inform the masses why you made that decision.”
Vanterpool said a decision cannot be made solely because someone is “the boss”, adding that this was a lesson she had to learn as well.
“I let my command team know, I respect what you shared with me, I respect your recommendation, but this is what I would like.”
The Acting Police Commissioner said when she makes decisions, not everyone is pleased, but she ensures “mutual respect” is maintained with her command team.
“[Because] at the end of the day, these are who I need.”
Collins cleared of damning allegations
Mark Collins was appointed Commissioner of Police in April 2021; his tenure was quickly marred by a slew of complaints against him by officers.
Some 55 counts were brought against him, including breach of trust, blatant disrespect for law and order, and alleged corruption.
It has been said that the United Kingdom-appointed Governor often protected Collins, which led to him never facing any disciplinary action, such as being put on leave.
Although he was investigated, officers involved revealed they were never interviewed, leading to them labelling the investigation as “fraud”, following Collins being cleared of any wrongdoing.
His tenure as Commissioner of Police ended on November 30, 2024, and Ms Vanterpool has been acting in the position ever since.
Ms Vanterpool has confirmed that she has reapplied for the position.
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15 Responses to “Mark Collins began to ‘stray’ during tenure as CoP- Jacqueline E. Vanterpool”
Why didn’t you say it while he was there ?
Now you talking behind the man back. You should have said this while he was there, so we would see you standing for justice but now it’s a bit too late.
Can’t approve you to the top position.