Weymouth’s Next Police Chief Accepted into FBI National Academy

Weymouth Police Captain Richard Fuller was officially accepted into the FBI National Academy Class #279 that will commence on January 6th, 2020 in Quantico, Virginia. Captain Fuller has been selected to succeed Weymouth’s current Chief, Richard Grimes, upon Chief Grimes’ retirement in December. Captain Fuller was announced as the successor in October of 2019. Captain Fuller’s acceptance into the FBI National Academy will only add to his extensive training and improve his ability to serve as the next Chief of the Weymouth Police Department.  

“I am both humbled and grateful to have been recognized for this opportunity to further advance my training and the future of the Weymouth Police Department,” said Captain Fuller, in a written statement.  “I will return from this intensive training as a more educated, insightful and effective leader.”

The FBI National Academy is internationally known for its academic excellence. It is a professional course of study for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders that serves to improve the administration of justice in police departments and agencies both at home and abroad. The academy strives to raise law enforcement standards, knowledge, and cooperation worldwide. Nominations and acceptance into the academy is granted to less than one percent of all law enforcement professionals, making it a highly competitive and selective program.

“I am proud of Captain Fuller’s acceptance into the FBI National Academy, and his drive to continue to better himself and improve his leadership skills and abilities before taking over as the Town’s next Chief,” said Mayor Robert Hedlund. “It is clear Captain Fuller’s acceptance into this highly competitive academy, as one of only 220 nominees admitted, demonstrates his current level of professionalism and ability.”

According to the FBI National Academy site, officers will take undergraduate and/or graduate level courses at the FBI campus in Quantico on subject areas including: law, behavioral science, forensic science, understanding terrorism/terrorist mindsets, leadership, communication, and health/fitness. The approximately 220 officers will participate in leadership and specialized training. The course allows for the sharing of ideas, techniques, and experiences from around the country and internationally, providing for a robust learning environment.

The academy has been in operation since 1935 with the goal of standardizing and professionalizing law enforcement departments across the U.S. It has received support from the International Association of Chiefs, and became authorized by Congress and the Department of Justice as the “FBI Police Training School”.

National Academy graduates will have the benefits of a vast network of past professionals’ expertise, training, education, and information. Academy participants come from all 50 states as well as over 20 countries around the globe. As noted, this Academy is highly competitive; Departments nominate their top candidates for admission and less than one percent of nominees are accepted.