Kearney Police captain graduates from FBI National Academy

KEARNEY, NE — A Kearney Police captain is bringing knowledge gleaned from a prestigious law enforcement training program back to his community.

Kearney Police announced that Captain Kevin Thompson graduated from the FBI National Academy on Tuesday during a ceremony in Quantico, VA. A news release says 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.

“I’m certain his experience during the past ten weeks will have a direct impact on the leadership and direction of the Kearney Police Department,” Chief Bryan Waugh said in a news release. “We embrace leadership development and education and understand the importance of strong professional relationships”

The 283rd session of the academy included 235 law enforcement officers from 49 states and the District of Columbia.

Thompson is the fifth officer in Kearney Police history to complete the program. Nationally, fewer than 1% of officers get the opportunity to attend the program.

Thompson has served the Kearney Police Department for 29 years and is currently the Operations Commander.