New Paltz Town Police Lieutenant Robert Lucchesi is in the midst of a 10-week program at the FBI National Academy.
According to the bureau’s website, 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.”
Lucchesi is the second New Paltz Town Police officer to attend the academy – Chief Joseph Snyder also went through the program in 2008.
“I am excited that Lt. Lucchesi was accepted to attend the FBI National Academy,” Snyder said. “This is a great experience for a law enforcement official to attend, as only one percent are accepted; to go through the process and be selected to attend is truly an honor.”
Lucchesi submitted his application about two years ago with Snyder’s approval and, according to an article in Hudson Valley One, he is training with law enforcement officials who waited up to five years to complete the vetting process, which is paid for entirely with federal tax dollars.
Snyder said that he is handling most of Lucchesi’s duties while he is away but added that other members of the agency, mostly the sergeants, have also been a great asset contributing toward the lieutenant’s duties.
About 220 officers attend each 10 week session; Lucchesi said that there are about 25 international officers in his session alone and that the exposure to different parts of the U.S. and the rest of the world is an excellent opportunity.
“There are people here and their experience and what they do are amazing,” he said. “To be exposed to these people that are excellent leaders is a great experience.”
The FBI National Academy offers coursework in intelligence theory, terrorism and terrorist mindsets, management science, law, behavioral science, law enforcement communication, forensic science and health and fitness. According to Snyder, the classes are similar to taking a college course and attendees receive college credits through the University of Virginia.
Lucchesi said that he had picked up a lot of useful information through his coursework and discussions with other participants that he is excited to implement when he returns to New Paltz after he finishes the program on March 17. Snyder said that Lucchesi is missed and the department is excited for his return and the experiences he will share.
“Knowledge is only part of the benefit, as the connections you make with law enforcement officials around the world that attend this academy bring so much additional experience and expertise to the table,” Snyder said. “Information sharing is tremendous, which will continue throughout his career. Lt. Lucchesi is anxious to come back and share as well as implement many ideas and policies to better help serve our agency and community.”