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Suffolk Deputy Chief John E. McCarley recently graduated as a member of the 285th session of the FBI National Academy.
The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 16, Suffolk Chief of Police Alfred S. Chandler Jr. announced in a news release.

McCarley is the 29th officer in department history to complete this prestigious program, the release stated. Nationally, less than 1% of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, 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.

The 285th session of the Academy consisted of 247 law enforcement professionals representing 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 28 countries, four military organizations and five federal civilian organizations.

McCarley is a native of Louisville, Kentucky, where he joined the U.S. Air force and retired after 20 years of service. He also worked for HSBC Banking Corp. as an assistant broker until February 2002 and was hired by the Suffolk Police Department in December 2002. 

 McCarley attended and graduated from the Chesapeake Public Safety Academy. Following graduation from the Academy and completion of his field training, he was assigned to the Uniform Patrol Division. During his career, he has worked in operations, investigations, professional standards and administration, accruing multiple commendations along the way. He was promoted to sergeant in 2010, lieutenant in 2014, captain in 2017 and deputy chief in 2022. 

Some of his career highlights include establishing the department’s electronic ticketing program, online reporting website, and serving as S.W.A.T. commander.