John Coles QPM, Senior Manager

INTERNATIONAL CRIME DEPARTMENT, SERIOUS ORGANISED CRIME AGENCY (SOCA)

John Coles joined the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) in 1976 and rose through the ranks to Detective Chief Superintendent. On promotion to Chief Superintendent he returned to uniformed duties and dealt with the aftermath of the Brixton bombing.

In 1999 he took over as head of Scotland Yard's Organised Crime Group and in 2001, he arrested Ronald Biggs the world famous 'Great Train Robber'.

John then took over responsibility for Trident, which concentrates on black community gun crime and focussed on developing the proactive elements within the Command to target gunmen and suppliers. John retired from the MPS in 2006 and joined the Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) where he has responsibility for the overseas liaison officer network and tactical and strategic support teams in London.

During his career John received the Queen's Commendation for brave conduct and the Queen's Police Medal for distinguished police service.