WALTON COUNTY, Fla. — Major Dustin Burlison of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) has graduated from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
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Major Burlison joins just over 56,000 law enforcement professionals to complete the FBI National Academy since its founding in 1935. The distinction is held by less than one percent of officers nationwide.
The 294th session included participants from 48 states, the District of Columbia, 14 international countries, six military branches, and four federal civilian organizations.
The FBI National Academy is a 10-week program known worldwide for its academic rigor and leadership development. Participation is by invitation only and reserved for law enforcement leaders who have demonstrated exemplary performance in their agencies.
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The curriculum focuses on advanced communication, management, and physical training, with a strong emphasis on leadership.
Major Burlison began his law enforcement career in 2005 as a detention deputy. Over the past 19 years, he has served in patrol, narcotics, property crimes, and continuous improvement, and spent 10 years as a member of the WCSO SWAT team.
His leadership roles within the Sheriff’s Office have included District Commander, Training Bureau Chief, Professional Standards Bureau Chief, Judicial Services Bureau Chief, Jail Operations Bureau Chief, and his current position as Director of the Walton County Jail.
In 2022, Major Burlison graduated from the National Command and Staff College, receiving both the Capstone Award and the President’s Award in recognition of his academic and leadership excellence.
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He also serves as an adjunct instructor for Northwest Florida State College and the National Command and Staff College.
“It was a tremendous honor to represent Walton County and the Sheriff’s Office at the FBI National Academy,” said Major Burlison.
“The opportunity to train alongside law enforcement leaders from across the globe was humbling and inspiring. I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my family, Sheriff Adkinson, and our entire team. I look forward to applying what I’ve learned to further strengthen our agency and better serve our community.”
Major Burlison returns to Walton County with valuable experience, enhanced leadership skills, and a renewed commitment to public service and agency growth.
