James Frederick Scott

James Frederick Scott was born at Bathurst, on the 4th July, 1890, and joined the New South Wales Police Force, in 1911. He performed general uniformed duties in the metropolitan area and at Gunnedah until 1917, when he was assigned to special clerical duties at Police Headquarters. Mr. Scott displayed outstanding ability in administration and organisation and was for many years Chief Clerk in the offices of the Metropolitan Superintendent. Upon elevation to commissioned rank, he took a leading part in the general re-organisation of the Police Force in 1930 to meet modern requirements.
Mr. Scott was appointed Metropolitan Superintendent and Deputy Commissioner in 1940, and during the absence of Mr. Mackay in 1942 assisted the Commonwealth Government in establishing the Commonwealth Security Service, assuming the responsibility of Commissioner. As Deputy Commissioner he was engaged on Special administrative duties directly assisting the Commissioner. This was the first appointment of an Officer as Deputy Commissioner only.
Mr. Scott was appointed Commissioner of Police on the 18th February, 1948, but ill-health led to his premature retirement on the 13th October, 1952. In 1950, he was selected to represent Australian organisations at a Convention of International Police convened at Libson on 3rd April, 1951.
A very humane and able administrator, Mr. Scott throughout his distinguished career gave of his best to maintain and improve the standards and general efficiency of the New South Wales Police Force. He died on the 15th July, 1961, aged 71 years.

Return to Police Commissioners Index.