N.C. License & Theft Bureau Maj. Robert Sawyer
ROCKY MOUNT - Colonel Michael Oates, director of the N.C. License and Theft Bureau, has announced that Major Robert Sawyer has graduated as a member of the 286th session of the FBI National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on June 8. Nationally, fewer than one percent of officers can 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 286th session consisted of 238 law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 25 countries, five military organizations, and six federal civilian organizations.
"Robert and I began our careers together at the License and Theft Bureau in 2005, and through the years, I have grown to rely on him tremendously," said Colonel Oates. "He brings a wealth of knowledge back to the Bureau from his time at the FBI Academy, which is so important as we pursue the daily operations of protecting drivers and vehicle owners in our state."
Major Sawyer is a 23-year law enforcement officer currently serving as the Major over Programs and Services for the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles, License and Theft Bureau. His current position has him overseeing the four operations units (ID Fraud Lab, State Inspections, Motor Vehicle Dealers, and Notice and Storage) at headquarters in Rocky Mount. In addition, he serves as the Law Enforcement Accreditation Supervisor. Robert began his law enforcement career working for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department where he developed his interest in financial crimes. He received his BS and BA in Criminal Justice and Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and his MS in Economic Crime Management from Utica College. Robert is a graduate of the 91st Session of the N.C. State University Administrative Officer Management Program.
The NCDMV License and Theft Bureau enforces all state and federal laws which regulate motor vehicle operations, sales, inspection maintenance and auto theft, and conduct investigations that prevent fraud, impositions, and other abuses upon the citizens of North Carolina.
About the FBI National Academy
FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits many of the courses offered. A total of 54,366 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.