Dominica National and former Scotland Yard Detective Chief Inspector Dr David MICHAEL MBE was recognised as one of the Trailblazer / Icons who have helped to shape the London Borough of Lewisham into what it is today. A map of Black Lewisham launched at a Black History Month event ‘Reclaiming our Narratives’ by Lewisham Council BAME Professional Network on 31 October 2024 at Lewisham Town Hall. 

 

David was invited to share some insights about his pioneering role as the first Police Officer of African heritage to serve at Ladywell Police Station in Lewisham since the formation of the Metropolitan Police Service in 1829. At that time he was one of the 11 black Police Officers in London in a total of 28,000. David joined the Metropolitan Police Service in December 1972 at 19 years old. He arrived in Lewisham in early 1973 after successfully completing his training at Hendon Police Training School. He later served as a Detective Sergeant in Lewisham in 1984. He had a successful 30 year Police career and retired as a Detective Chief Inspector in 2002. 

 

David was presented with a special copy of the Black Lewisham Trailblazers / Icons map by the Executive Mayor of Lewisham, Mayor Brenda Dacres. 

https://lewisham.gov.uk/inmyarea/events/bhl-365-trailblazer-map

 

After retirement from the Metropolitan Police Service, David served in a non-political role for six years as a Special Adviser on Community Cohesion and Community Relations to the Executive Mayor of Lewisham and Lewisham Council. He was elected by local residents, community groups, organisations, church and faith groups to Chair the Lewisham Community Police Consultative Group (the Community Police Engagement Group for the Borough) for five years. He served a four year term as an elected Labour Councillor in Lewisham. During that time he was Chair of the Safer Stronger Communities Select Committee and Vice Chair of the Licensing Committee.

 

David has served as Chair of Dominica First, Vice Chair of DUKA and Management Committee member of DONA.