Marion Police Major Graduates from FBI National Academy

Chief Jay McDonald of the Marion City Police Department announced that Major Chris Adkins has graduated as a member of the 297th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, on March 18th, 2026. Major Adkins is the 5th officer in department history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers 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 297th session consisted of two hundred and fifty-three law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy.

The 297th session of the National Academy consisted of men and women from 48 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 24 countries, four military organizations, and four federal civilian organizations.

Major Adkins began his career with the Marion City Police Department in November 1996 as a dispatcher and became a patrol officer in 1999. He earned recognition as Marion City Police Officer of the Year in both 2004 and 2005, and in 2006 he joined the Investigations Unit. He was promoted to Lieutenant in January 2011 and, in 2013, was appointed Lieutenant for the MARMET Drug Task Force. In 2020, he was promoted to Major, overseeing the Criminal Investigations Unit and the MARMET Drug Task Force. In 2025, he was honored with the Ohio NARCO Task Force Commander of the Year Award.

“I am proud of Major Adkins for being selected for this prestigious training opportunity. The information learned and the contacts made will benefit the City of Marion for years to come,” Chief Jay McDonald stated.