Mayor Marty Small Sr. announced that Atlantic City Police Chief James A. Sarkos has graduated from the 299th session of the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Chief Sarkos completed the intensive 10-week program on Sept. 17, 2026, becoming the 16th officer in the history of the Atlantic City Police Department to graduate from the FBI National Academy. The highly selective program brings together experienced law enforcement leaders from across the United States and around the world for advanced training in communication, leadership and fitness. NBA legend and entrepreneur Shaquille O’Neal served as the commencement speaker for the graduation ceremony.
“The FBI National Academy is among the most respected law enforcement leadership programs in the world, and it’s fitting the Chief of the best police department in the world has now completed it. That speaks volumes about his commitment to this profession and to the Great City of Atlantic City. Under Chief Sarkos’ leadership, the fine men and women of the Atlantic City Police Department are going to keep pushing forward and raising the bar for public safety in Atlantic City, stated Mayor Marty Small Sr.”
The 299th session consisted of 265 law enforcement officers representing 44 states and the District of Columbia. The class also included members of law enforcement agencies from 28 countries, five military organizations and four federal civilian organizations.
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the FBI National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership and fitness training. Participants are proven law enforcement professionals within their agencies and typically return to serving in executive-level positions.
Chief Sarkos began his law enforcement career in 1995 and joined the Atlantic City Police Department in October 2000. He rose through the ranks, serving as Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and Deputy Chief before assuming leadership of the department in 2020 and being sworn in as
Chief of Police in 2022. Throughout his career, he has helped lead major public safety and technology initiatives, including the Boardwalk Camera Project, the ACPD Surveillance Center/Emergency Operations Center, Project P.A.C.T. and Risk Terrain Modeling. Chief Sarkos holds degrees from Atlantic Cape Community College, Stockton University and Seton Hall University and has completed advanced leadership programs through the New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police and Rutgers University.
