Norwalk Deputy Police Chief Graduates From FBI National Academy

Information via the Norwalk Police Department

NORWALK, CT — Deputy Police Chief Terrence Blake recently graduated as a member of the 289th session of the FBI National Academy.

In a news release provided by the Norwalk Police Department, Chief of Police James Walsh said Wednesday the graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Va., on March 15.

According to Walsh, Blake is the 14th officer in the department's history to complete this prestigious program. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communications, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have established records as professionals within their agencies to attend, Walsh said.

On average, the National Academy attendees have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions, Walsh said.

The 289th session consisted of 197 law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class also included members of law enforcement agencies from 23 countries, four military organizations, and five federal civilian organizations, according to Walsh.

"I want to commend Deputy Chief Blake for his hard work and committment while attending the NA" Walsh said in a news release. "Being a graduate of the FBI National Academy, I know the value of this outstanding program and am proud of our partnership with the FBI."

Blake was hired in October of 1998 and would dedicate the first five years of his career between the Patrol and Community Police Divisions. This assignment was followed by appointments to the Special Services Division (2003), and Federal Bureau of Investigations Safe Streets Task Force (2006), according to Walsh.

In 2006, Blake was promoted to detective. In 2009, Blake was reassigned to the Detective Bureau, as well as appointed to the United States Marshals Service Violence Fugitive Task Force.

In 2013, Blake was promoted to sergeant. He supervised the Patrol Division, and then the Community Services Unit, according to Walsh.

In 2015, Blake was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and spent the next several years commanding the Community Police Services Unit, the Special Victims Unit, Patrol Division 2nd Platoon and Combined Dispatch.

He is the commander of the Emergency Services Unit, of which he has been a member for 16 years, Walsh said. Blake was appointed to serve as deputy chief of police in 2022.

During his career, Blake has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership. He has engaged in extensive training and earned several accolades for his bravery and exemplary service.

According to Walsh, these include, but are not limited to:

Training and Expertise: His extensive training includes sessions with recognized local, state, and national agencies. While at the FBI National Academy, Blake took classes designed to enhance his skills in areas such as Senior Management, Executive Leadership, Command Leadership, and Communication.

Education: Deputy Chief Blake holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Certificate in Criminal Justice Education.

Awards: Throughout his tenure, Blake received the Police Service Cross, Medals of Merit, Distinguished Service Awards, Meritorious Commendations, Unit Citations, U.S. Attorney’s Office Awards, the Courage of Connecticut Award, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office Community Policing Award.