Major Eric Peterson with James City County Police Department and two hundred and fifty five other law enforcement officers graduated from the FBI National Academy Program at Quantico, VA on Sept. 13. The 277th Session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 50 states and the District of Columbia, 34 countries, five military organizations and nine federal civilian organizations.
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.
Major Eric Peterson has been with James City County Police Department since September, 1994. Major Peterson has served as a Patrol Officer, Narcotics Investigator, Virginia State Police Special Officer, General Assignment Investigator, Patrol Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, Community Services Unit Lieutenant, Investigations Lieutenant and as a Virginia State Police Drug Task Force Coordinator. Major Peterson served 17 years on the Department’s SWAT Team as a Sniper/Observer, Assistant Team Commander and Team Commander. He is also a Defensive Tactics Instructor and he teaches interviewing and interrogation techniques.
Major Peterson has a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University. He is a graduate of the Professional Executive Leadership School at the University of Richmond.
Major Peterson served in the United States Army and Army Reserve. He held a variety of leadership positions to include Platoon Sergeant, Drill Sergeant, First Sergeant and Acting Battalion Command Sergeant Major. He retired as a First Sergeant with 22 years of service.
He is a member of the Williamsburg Men’s Club and he is an adjunct professor. Major Peterson has received numerous decorations and honors to include James City County’s Police Officer of the Year Award and a Virginia State Senate Commendation for Exemplary Service.
Media Contact:
Stephanie Williams, Police Spokesperson
757-592-5618; stephanie.williams@jamescitycountyva.gov