Colonel Jamie Leonard sworn in as New Castle County chief of police

Colonel James (Jamie) J. Leonard III has been sworn in as the new chief of police for the New Castle County Division of Police and promoted to colonel from his previous rank as captain.

“Jamie is a highly accomplished law enforcement officer and has a proven track record of success and dedication to public safety,” New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry said. “I’d like to thank County Council for confirming Col. Leonard’s appointment so quickly, and I look forward to working with our new chief to ensure the residents of New Castle County receive the best policing possible.”

Col. Leonard assumes the role of chief of police after serving in the New Castle County Division of Police since 2002 when he joined the county’s 29^th Police Academy Recruit Class.

“I’d like to thank County Executive Henry for entrusting me with the immense responsibility of leading the men and women of the New Castle County Division of Police,” Col. Leonard said. “My job every day will be to make sure the residents of our county feel safe and that our men and women in uniform return home to their loved ones every night.”

In 2023, Col. Leonard was promoted to Captain and assumed command of the Technology and Special Projects Section, where he was responsible for the Division’s public information office, accreditation office, budget office, and body-worn camera unit. Additionally, he served as the Division’s liaison to the Delaware General Assembly, a position he held at the time of his appointment. In addition, he has served as president of the Delaware State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) since 2020, fostering collaboration across law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders.

Leonard is a graduate of York College of Pennsylvania and completed the New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership Academy and went on to serve as an instructor and program administrator. He is also a 2018 graduate of Leadership Delaware.

In addition, former county police Col. Elmer Setting was approved as director of the county’s Department of Public Safety by the county council.