DECATUR – Decatur Police Chief Todd Pinion graduated Thursday from the FBI National Academy, the department announced. The ceremony was at the National Academy in Quantico, Va.

Nationally, less than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 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 286th session consisted of 238 law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 25 countries, five military organizations, and six federal civilian organizations.

Pinion joined the Decatur Police Department in November 2004. He has served the city in several capacities Patrol, Criminal Investigations, and the Office of Professional Standards. Pinion was sworn in as chief May 31, 2022.