On April 4, 2023, City Manager Pete Williams announced that Lieutenant Jesse D. Poole has graduated as a member of the 285th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 16th, 2023. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
The 285th session consisted of two hundred and forty-seven law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 28 countries, four military organizations, and five federal civilian organizations.
Lieutenant Jesse D. Poole has assisted in leading the City of Bethel Police Department since 2020. In 2022 Lieutenant Jesse D. Poole was appointed the Acting Chief of Police, while the city searched for candidates for the permanent Chief position. Lieutenant Jesse D. Poole has over 18 years of law enforcement experience. Starting his career in the state of Florida in 2004 before moving to Alaska in 2017.
About the FBI National Academy
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are 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 many of the courses offered. A total of 54,154 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.
The City of Bethel is proud of Lieutenant Jesse D. Poole and look forward to having him back in Bethel.