Sgt. James Leonard is a lifelong resident of Delaware, and was raised in North Wilmington. After attending Salesianum School, he attended York College of Pennsylvania and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. In November, 2002 he was hired by the New Castle County Police Department and upon graduation from the police academy, he was assigned to the patrol section. After serving in the patrol section for five years, he transferred to the Criminal Investigations Unit where he investigated child abuse and homicide cases. In 2014, Sgt. Leonard was promoted to the rank of Sergeant within the patrol section. In April 2017, Sgt. Leonard was transferred back to the Criminal Investigations Unit where he currently oversees the Tech Crimes Squad.

Sgt. Leonard is a certified police instructor and teaches various topics both at the police academy and at in-service trainings. Sgt. Leonard is the Vice President of the Fraternal Order of Police, NCC Lodge 5, which represents the men and women of the New Castle County Police Department in labor matters and collective bargaining. He is also a board member of the Delaware State FOP Lodge where he serves on the Legislative Committee.