That Secure Feeling

The Monroe County Clarion has posted a series of articles today detailing Columbia Police Chief Joe Edwards' recent completion of the FBI National Academy program and how he plans to put what he learned into practice locally. Internationally recognized for its academic excellence, the program offers ten weeks of advanced investigative, management and fitness training for selected law enforcement personnel from around the nation and, more recently, from other countries.

Only individuals with a proven record as leaders in their profession are selected to participate in the all-expenses-paid program. Each year the FBI selects no more than 1,000 officers to go through the National Academy—only about 1% of law enforcement officers in the United States.

Edwards received training in the following areas while attending the Academy:

• Labor law
• Interviews and interrogations
• Media relations
• Stress management in law enforcement
• Crime scene photography
• Physical fitness

Edwards, a 15-year veteran of the Columbia Police Department, has been Columbia’s Chief of Police since March of 2004. “This recognition of Chief Edwards is an honor,” reflected Columbia Mayor Kevin Hutchinson. “Although his participation was at no cost to the City or its citizens, benefits will accrue to Columbia for years to come.”