SJPD Completes Policing Leadership Academy Cohort

MEDIA ADVISORY

This year, from January through May, the San José Police Department participated in University of Chicago's Policing Leadership Academy (PLA), an intensive management education program at the University's Crime Lab. This program aims to reduce gun violence and improve the effectiveness and fairness of policing.

SJPD Acting Deputy Chief Brandon Sanchez participated in the second Academy cohort which consisted of 35 rising police leaders from 35 police departments from around the world. For five months, students engaged in curriculum that focused on various topics including inclusive and ethical leadership, and violence reduction to create resilient communities.

The curriculum also prepared students to create and present their capstone projects, which turns lessons learned into lives saved. Acting Deputy Chief Sanchez's capstone project focused on the criminality of sideshows, the impacts they have on the community, and tactics developed to address the violent nature of these events. Congratulations to Acting Deputy Chief Sanchez for completing the rigorous five-month Policing Leadership Academy.

"The PLA is the only police management and leadership education program in the country specifically designed for those at the level of commander," said Meredith Stricker, Executive Director of the Policing Leadership Academy. "Our goal is to reduce violence in America by engaging district commanders from some of our most violent communities – places where violence often feels intractable. We are working to equip police leaders with the skills, tools, and support needed to make their communities and the country as a whole safer."

"Being a part of this five-month program, alongside some of the greatest law enforcement agencies in the world, has been an honor and a privilege," stated Acting Chief of Police Paul Joseph. "I look forward to applying the data-driven strategies and curriculum to our practices so that we can continue our mission of providing public safety through strong community partnerships."