Davenport Police Chief Jeffery Bladel was among the latest class of graduates from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, the police department announced in a news release Monday, Sept. 23.
The chief was one of 254 law enforcement professionals in the 291st session to graduate on Thursday, Sept. 12. Mr. Bladel has led the Davenport Police Department since assuming the role of chief in August, 2022.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy is an intensive 10-week training program held at the FBI Training Academy, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts. Training includes advanced instruction on communication, leadership, and fitness. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies in order to attend.
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide academy training with many instructors being recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered.
Mr. Bladel is one of only 55,440 graduates who have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The latest class consisted of law enforcement professionals selected to attend from 47 states, the District of Columbia, and Guam. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 26 countries, seven military organizations, and seven federal civilian organizations.
According to the Davenport Police Department release, completing the program was a career-long goal for Chief Bladel and “reflects his ongoing dedication and commitment to serving the Davenport community.”
