The Parsons Police Department announced that Deputy Chief Dennis K. Dodd will attend the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Academy this summer, a remarkable achievement in his distinguished law enforcement career.
Admission to this program is by invitation only, following a rigorous nomination process that recognizes exceptional leadership and dedication to professional excellence.
Deputy Chief Dodd was first nominated by former Police Chief Jason Sharp in 2017, and his nomination was reaffi rmed in 2018 by current Police Chief Robert Spinks. Now, after seven years of dedication and preparation, Deputy Chief Dodd will join Class 295 of the FBI National Academy.
“Deputy Chief Dodd’s selection to the FBI National Academy is a testament to his unwavering commitment to advancing his skills and leadership capabilities,” said Chief Spinks. “This accomplishment reflects his hard work and the outstanding reputation he has built within the Parsons Police Department and the wider law enforcement community.”
The FBI National Academy is a 10-week professional development program designed for U.S. and international law enforcement leaders. The program includes comprehensive coursework in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication and forensic science. It aims to elevate law enforcement standards, foster global cooperation and enhance the administration of justice.
Deputy Chief Dodd has invested years in professional development to position himself for this opportunity. Since 2017, he has completed a series of advanced leadership and executive training programs, including earning his FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Association (LEEDA) trilogy. This entailed his completion of the Supervisory Leadership Institute, Command Leadership Institute and the Executive Leadership Institute. The Parsons Police Department requires all employees at the rank of lieutenant and above to complete these courses. Deputy Chief Dodd also attended Session 33 of the Central States Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS), graduated from the Southern Police Institute’s (SPI)
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Management of a Small Police Agency program and completed the Results Group Executive Leadership Academy.
“Being selected to attend the FBI National Academy is both an honor and a responsibility,” said Deputy Chief Dodd. “I’ve worked hard to develop my leadership skills, and this opportunity will allow me to bring new knowledge and strategies back to our department. I’m excited to represent Parsons on a national stage and contribute to our community in meaningful ways.”
In addition to his professional training, Deputy Chief Dodd’s leadership is evident in his community involvement. He serves as a board member for the Juvenile Justice Authority (JCAB), Big Brothers Big Sisters and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE). He is also an active board member in Leadership Labette, where he contributes to fostering collaboration and growth within the region.
Deputy Chief Dodd’s contributions to law enforcement extend beyond leadership. He is an active trainer in verbal de-escalation, biased-based policing, critical incident debriefing, firearms instruction and active shooter response. His expertise has strengthened the department’s preparedness and professionalism, further establishing the Parsons Police Department as a leader in public safety.
“The knowledge and skills Deputy Chief Dodd will gain at the National Academy will have a profound impact on our department and the community we serve,” Chief Spinks added. “His commitment to excellence and continuous improvement is an inspiration to us all. This is a first for Parsons PD to have one of our staff selected to attend the National Academy which requires a rank of lieutenant or higher to attend.”
Deputy Chief Dodd also graduated magna cum laude from both Labette Community College and Central Christian College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. In 2022, he was recognized with the Distinguished Alumni Award from Labette Community College, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in both his profession and the community.
“This opportunity isn’t just about personal growth,” Deputy Chief Dodd said. “It’s about enhancing the capabilities of our entire department and ensuring we’re providing the highest level of service to our citizens. I’m grateful for the support of Chief Spinks, my colleagues, and the Parsons community in making this achievement possible.”
The academy and training and lodging at the National Academy is provided by the FBI. The National Academy is located in 547 acres inside the United States Marine Corps base at Quantico, Virginia.
