James joined the Richland Township police force in 1965 and served as Police Chief from 1969 until the time of his death. He belonged to various local civic organizations. James also was an instructor at the Greater Johnstown Police Academy for 20 years, beginning in 1972. He was also a Chairman for the Governor’s Justice Commission and the Cambria County Emergency Service Department. In his distinguished career, James received a meritorious service medal for his role during rescue and recovery operations during the Johnstown Flood of 1977.

During Jame’s tenure as Chief, the Richland Police Department grew from a 4-man force to a complement of 16 full-time and 16-tim part time officers, with 15 police cruisers. He died after a battle with cancer.