Census of Law Enforcement Training Academies

Sworn law enforcement officers generally receive training throughout their careers, beginning with basic training for entry-level recruits, followed by in-service training. Basic law enforcement training academies are operated by state-level organizations such as—

• Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) entities
• state police or highway patrols
• local law enforcement agencies such as sheriff’s offices and county or municipal police departments
• and academic institutions such as 2-...

Law enforcement describes the agencies and employees responsible for enforcing laws, maintaining public order, and managing public safety. The primary duties of law enforcement include the investigation, apprehension, and detention of individuals suspected of criminal offenses. Some law enforcement agencies, particularly sheriffs' offices, also have a significant role in the detention of individuals convicted of criminal offenses.

BJS maintains several national data collections covering federal...