James Cunningham is a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer who is active with the Special Operations Division (SWAT) Tactical 2 Platoon. His competencies include violent‑crime and narcotics investigations, and he handles threat and risk assessment in complex cases. James Cunningham applies advanced strategies such as time‑enabled GPS tracks and geographic information system (GIS) in mapping out stash houses, priority surveillance areas, and offender anchor points.
Mr. Cunningham has supported joint operations in conjunction with Homeland Security and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), generating federal prosecutions for narcotics and firearm offenses. He has also served within the Investigative Services Bureau Gang Unit and worked to identify and dismantle New Orleans drug and gun networks.
A criminal justice graduate of Lewis University, James Cunningham is currently working toward a graduate degree in emergency preparedness from Tulane University. He enjoys history and historical tours, as well as activities such as boxing, running, and playing tennis.