Chief graduates from FBI National Academy

FREMONT — Fremont police Chief Derek Wensinger recently recapped his "amazing opportunity" to attend the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, for the last 11 weeks. "I could not have been away without a lot of support here at home," Wensinger said. "Thank you to the city of Fremont administration, Mayor Danny Sanchez and safety service director Ken Frost for their support and encouragement," Wensinger added. "They have both advocated for advanced training and education for our police department. Thank you, Capt. Ty Conger and the team of sergeants who took on additional responsibilities while I was away." Wensinger noted he "experienced graduate-level coursework and demanding physical fitness training." "My classmates came from all over the U.S. and across the world," he said. "I look forward to bringing that education back to our police department as we try to get to the next level in public service." Context into the class On Dec. 11, Wensinger graduated as a member of the 296th session of the FBI National Academy. A graduation ceremony occurred at Quantico. Wensinger represents the fifth officer in Fremont police's history to complete this prestigious program, according to a city statement. Nationally, fewer than 1% of officers have the opportunity to attend the program. "Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 11 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training," the statement read. "Participants must have a proven record as professionals within their respective agencies to attend." The National Academy was started by former president J. Edgar Hoover in 1935 with the goal of increasing the standards of professionalism in law enforcement. Among some numbers to understand, as the statement pointed out: • On average, officers who attend have 21 years of experience in law enforcement. • The 296th session consisted of 254 law enforcement officers, broken down with men and women from 47 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. • The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations and two federal civilian organizations. "Chief Wensinger enrolled in graduate-level academic classes, earning credits from the University of Virginia," the statement read. "He also participated in physical fitness training that culminated in a 6.1-mile obstacle course."