Six officers from the Houston area were among the 257 law enforcement professionals who graduated from the 292nd session of the FBI’s National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on December 12, 2024. This National Academy class consisted of men and women from 48 American states, eight military organizations, five federal civilian organizations, and 27 nations around the world.

FBI Director Christopher Wray delivered remarks at the graduation ceremony. The officers from the Houston area are listed below:

• Chief Tobie Bias of the Palacios Police Department
• Assistant Special Agent in Charge John Culley of the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service
• Captain Simon Cheng of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office
• Captain Robert Shores of the Santa Fe Police Department
• Lieutenant J.C. Padilla of the Houston Police Department
• Lieutenant Jeffrey York of the Missouri City Police Department

Internationally recognized for its academic excellence, the FBI’s National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced leadership classes, communication courses, and fitness challenges. Candidates must demonstrate proven records as professionals within their agencies to even be considered for selection into the program. On average, graduates have served over 20 years in law enforcement and typically hold executive-level positions after returning to their respective agencies.

Experienced FBI instructors, special agents, and professional support teams provide specialized trainings during each National Academy session. Many of these same instructors are known worldwide for their advanced work in various disciplines of criminology. Moreover, students can earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which has accredited many National Academy courses since 1972.

Since its inception in 1935, more than 55,790 public safety professionals have graduated from the FBI National Academy. The National Academy is held at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA at the same facility where new FBI special agents and intelligence analysts receive training and instruction.