News

City honors Capt. Laws for FBI National Academy graduation

By Lightning Reports, Published: April 6, 2025

The Hendersonville City Council on Thursday honored police Capt. Trae Laws for graduating in March from the FBI National Academy, an elite training program included participants from 48 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, 24 countries, eleven military organizations, and four federal civilian agencies.

Laws was among 244 law enforcement professionals graduating from the 293rd session of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
“I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the City Council, City Manager Connet and Chief Myhand for the incredible opportunity to attend the prestigious FBI National Academy,” Laws said. “The training provided was exceptional and will significantly enhance my ability to serve the citizens of Hendersonville.”

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced leadership, communication, 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 graduation featured remarks from FBI Director Kash Patel, while class spokesperson Joses Walehwa of the Brea Police Department in California represented the graduating officers.

FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits all the National Academy courses offered.

A total of 55,941 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. Laws continues the legacy of National Academy graduates from the Hendersonville Police Department, joining the ranks of former police chiefs John Nicholson and Donnie Parks as well as current Chief Blair Myhand.