Alexandria Police Lieutenant Tara May graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy on September 13, 2022.  

Lieutenant Tara May graduated as part of the 283rd Session of which only one percent of law enforcement executives are selected to attend. Even more significant, there have been 51,141 graduates over the Academy’s 87 years with only 2,528 graduates being female.  She is the fourth female from the Alexandria Police Department to attend. This accomplishment by Lt. May is something only the top female law enforcement executives from around the world have experienced.

“The importance of female representation in law enforcement, especially at the executive level, cannot be overstated. Lt. May represented the Alexandria Police Department and the City in the most outstanding and professional manner during her time at the National Academy,” said Captain Monica Lisle.   

Lieutenant Tara May has been with the Department for 22 years.  She is the Commander of the police department's Technical Investigations Section and the Hostage Negotiation Team Commander. She joins the following current Alexandria police officers who have also completed the FBI National Academy: Chief Don Hayes, Captain Chris Wemple III, Captain Monica Lisle, Lieutenant Mike May, Lieutenant Steve Carr, and Lieutenant Jerry Newcomb. 

The National Academy Program is held at the FBI Academy in Quantico and consists of 10 weeks of coursework in advanced public communications, managing critical incidents, public speaking, leading at risk employees and the wellness of employees, establishing and maintaining relationships with the community, and an intensive physical fitness program.

As an agency, we would like to thank Lt. May for her dedication to our profession and welcome her back. 

For media inquiries call 703.746.6600 or email APDNews@Alexandriava.gov. 

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/4020.