MIDDLETOWN, NJ – Middletown Township Police Department Deputy Chief Robert W. Stefanski graduated from the 273rd Session of the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, Virginia on September 13, 2018. Stefanski is the tenth officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
The National Academy Program, held at the FBI Academy, consisted of 228 law enforcement officers from 48 states. Also included in the class are members of law enforcement agencies from the District of Columbia, 25 international countries, four branches of the U.S. Military, and five federal civilian organizations.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the program offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training for selected officers who have proven records as professionals within their agencies. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.
Deputy Chief Stefanski began his career with the department as a Civilian Communications Operator in 1987. He was hired as a Patrol Officer in 1990, promoted to Sergeant in 1999, Lieutenant in 2008, and Deputy Chief in 2015. He will complete his 31st year of service in November 2018. His current assignment is Commander of the Investigative and Technical Services Division, which includes Detectives, Records, IT, Community Relations, Training, Planning and Budget, and Special Operations.
“Deputy Chief Stefanski was a wonderful representative of the Police Department and Middletown Township at the FBI National Academy,” said Police Chief R. Craig Weber. “He was able to share his expertise with fellow classmates from around the country and world, and returned from the program with some innovative ideas that we are excited to implement in our department.”
About The FBI Academy
The FBI Academy instructional staff includes Special Agents and other staff members holding advanced degrees, many of whom are recognized internationally in their fields of expertise, provide training for the program. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia due to the accreditation by the university of the many courses offered. A total of 51,270 graduates now represent the alumni of the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935.
Photo Caption: FBI Director Christopher Asher Wray (left) was the principal speaker at the ceremony and presented the diplomas to graduates, including MTPD Deputy Chief Robert Stefanski.