Joseph Cunningham, Gleaner Writer

Inspector David McLeod of the Toronto Police Service in Canada will arrive in Jamaica during the coming week for a six-month stint with the National Intelligence Bureau, according to Charles Scarlett, Deputy Commissioner in charge of Intelligence.

Dep. Commissioner Scarlett disclosed that "Inspector McLeod is an exchange officer who will study the structure and operations of Jamaican gangs."

While he was unable to name the local officer being exchanged with Inspector McLeod, Deputy Commissioner Scarlett said: "The exchange of officers is part of a partnership between policing entities in the fight against trans-national crimes. Many crimes that take place here are linked to Jamaicans living overseas, especially in places with a strong Jamaican presence, like London and Toronto," he said.

Expertise in intelligence

News first broke of Inspector McLeod's coming when an article titled, 'Toronto inspector assigned to Jamaica' was posted on the website, www.theglobeandmail.com on Thursday.

Information on the website said Insp. McLeod would lend his expertise in intelligence gathering and analysis, as well as his knowledge of gangs and gang violence. The information also said the inspector would study how the Jamaica Constabulary Force handles drug importation and community policing.

In an interview with the website on Wednesday, Insp. McLeod said, "I bring a good cross section of experience that will be helpful."

Beginning as a front-line constable, Insp. McLeod was promoted after eight years to sergeant. He moved into intelligence work three years later and, after another eight years was made staff sergeant. As an inspector he served as a duty officer and acted as representative of the police chief.