We are deeply saddened to inform you of the passing of our founder and colleague, Richard Sleeman. Dr Richard Sleeman BSc (Hons), PhD, CSci, CChem, FRSC, MFSSoc, a distinguished English chemist and a pioneer in the field of forensic chemistry, died suddenly on September 8, 2023, at the age of 67. He is survived by his wife Sue.
Richard Sleeman was born in Exeter, England, on December 3, 1955. His family moved to Bristol, where he attended Weston Grammar School. A keen athlete, he supported Exeter City Football Club, played tennis, and had an enthusiastic amateur football career on Bristol Downs throughout his university studies and first career at British Aerospace. He obtained his PhD from the University of Bristol and was a member of the Academy of Experts and a Law Society Checked Expert Witness from 1997 to 2019.
Dr Sleeman was one of the founders of Mass Spec Analytical Ltd., and for most of his career he specialized in the detection of trace quantities of drugs and explosives. He published over thirty scientific papers and articles on trace detection, and he was closely involved in the development of the techniques and methodologies employed in the examination of drugs traces on paper currency. He presented his work in court on approaching one hundred occasions, including at the Court of Appeal on three occasions. Richard's work has helped to make our communities safer and to reduce the crime associated with drug trafficking and terrorism.
In addition to his scientific accomplishments, Dr Sleeman was also a kind and generous person, always willing to help others. He was a passionate educator and mentor, and he helped to train many of the next generation of forensic scientists. He was also a great friend and colleague. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.