Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Monklands gets new police chief
Monklands’ new top cop has vowed to build on the “excellent work ”of his predecessor as he settles into the hot seat.
Chief Inspector David Sharp intends to use his 21 years of experience in the police force to develop relationships with members of the community and serve the district with distinction.
The 47-year-old, who grew up in Rutherglen and now lives in Perthshire, has worked in Monklands before.
He was a response inspector and response sergeant in Coatbridge police station.
He told the Advertiser: “Monklands is an area I wanted to come back to and work in. I first cut my teeth working as a response sergeant in Coatbridge and thoroughly enjoyed my time there.
“I asked to come here as it’s a fantastic place to work and if I could have chosen any role to fill within my current position it would be this one.”
David takes over from Chief Inspector Gavin Russell and hailed the impact his predecessor made in the role.
He said: “Gavin did an outstanding job and I am looking to build on the excellent work he put in place.
“I am hoping to continue in a similar vein and develop and enhance the strategies Gavin brought to the position.
“There is a very strong team here, with excellent response inspectors, and it is our aim to link up with local communities, develop relationships and work together to make Monklands a safer place.”
Ch Insp Sharp’s previous experience includes working on Police Scotland’s 2026 initiative and he is urging Monklands residents to get involved in the campaign.
He explained: “I was with the 2026 project for nine months and the strategy examines the next 10 years and what can be done to prepare and assist Police Scotland and the public during this time period.”