The Chattanooga Police Department announced that Chief John Chambers graduated from the University of Chicago Crime Lab's Police Leadership Academy, an educational program dedicated to reducing violent crime and improving police effectiveness.
Chief Chambers is one of 35 police chiefs from the United States and Canada who graduated from the intensive five-month program. He has received practical training in data-driven management, violence reduction, and building community trust.
“The PLA is the only police management and leadership program in the country specifically designed to increase safety and justice in American cities and beyond,” officials said.
This initiative was guided by University of Chicago Crime Laboratory research that found that the quality of management can significantly impact the productivity and effectiveness of police work.
“The PLA program has provided an opportunity for professional growth and enhanced motivation and commitment to continue improving policing in Chattanooga,” Chief John Chambers said as part of his opening address to PLA Group III. “I am honored to be selected for this program and am already working with CPD staff, other city units and community members to identify historically high violent crime areas and formulate a response plan that includes relationship building, rather than just implementation.”
This third batch of the PLA began in July and ended with graduation on November 21 and there was no cost to the city or administration. Chief Chambers is the program's second CPD graduate. Major Jayvan Montgomery graduated with the 2nd Regiment of the People's Liberation Army earlier in 2024.
