James "Scottie" Scotland was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on August 7, 1897, moving to New Jersey in 1908. He received a Grammar School education at the 15th Avenue School in Newark, New Jersey. Before entering the New Jersey State Police, he spent 15 years touring the country as an aerial gymnast in the Wilson-Aubrey Trio Vaudeville act. During World War I, he served with the United States Coast Artillery from October 1918 to February 1919, receiving the rank of Bugler First Class. He resided in Jersey City, Hudson County, New Jersey.

Trooper Scotland enlisted with the New Jersey State Police on April 16, 1931 as a member of the 24th State Police Class and was assigned to Troop "C", Columbus. His service with the Department was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty, and faithful and energetic devotion to the principles of the New Jersey State Police.

Trooper Scotland met his death as a result of an automobile accident while in the performance of his duty.

On February 16, 1935, Troopers Scotland and George Wustefeld were riding in a Troop Car through fog. The Troop Car met another car in a head-on collision. He died three days later from injuries received in the accident.

Trooper Scotland served 3 years and 10 months with the New Jersey State Police.
Trooper Scotland was survived by his wife. He was 37 years old.