INDIANAPOLIS- Major Seth Ferrell of the IMPD Criminal Investigations Unit graduated from the 291st FBI National Academy Session.
"Today, we celebrate not just the completion of a prestigious program but the embodiment of excellence and dedication that defines our department. Major Ferrell has not only graduated from the FBI National Academy but has also brought back invaluable knowledge and skills that will elevate our entire agency. This achievement reflects Major Ferrell’s commitment to leadership, integrity, and the pursuit of justice. We are proud to have such a distinguished leader among us, and we are excited to see the positive impact he will continue to make in our community," said IMPD Chief Chris Bailey.
The FBI National Academy is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement managers nominated by their agency heads because of demonstrated leadership qualities. The 10-week program—which provides coursework in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, and forensic science—serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies at home and abroad and to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide (FBI.gov).
The National Academy was created as the “FBI Police Training School” in 1935 in response to the 1930 Wickersham Commission report recommending standardization and professionalization of law enforcement in the United States through centralized training. At the time, courses included scientific aids in crime detection, preparation of reports, criminal investigation techniques, and administration and organization. Studies pertaining to espionage and sabotage were offered as World War II began.
Major Ferrell is a 17-year veteran of IMPD. After completing his field training, Major Ferrell was assigned to the East District, where he served on the middle shift and the Crime Reduction Team (CRT) for three years. Major Ferrell transferred to IMPD Southeast District in 2012, serving as a patrol officer and later as a field training officer until he was promoted to sergeant in 2017. After working as a field sergeant and the Sergeant of Vice/Narcotics, he was promoted to lieutenant in January 2021 and was assigned to the Internal Affairs Unit. Major Ferrell has also served as the lieutenant of the Special Investigations Unit and the lieutenant of the Intimate Partner Violence Unit. Major Ferrell is currently assigned as the Assistant Division Commander of the Criminal Investigations Division.
Major Ferrell holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master of Public Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University. Major Ferrell is also a graduate of the IMPD Leadership Academy Session 2014-02 and serves as a Leadership Academy Mentor. Major Ferrell is married with two children and enjoys spending time outdoors with his family.
To learn more about the FBI National Academy, visit https://www.fbi.gov/ser.../training-academy/national-academy.
