University of Chicago PLA group
The Chattanooga Police Department announce that Division Chief of Professional Standards David Young has graduated from the University of Chicago Crime Lab’s Policing Leadership Academy, an education program focused on reducing violent crime and improving police effectiveness through leadership.
Division Chief Young was among just 35 police leaders from across the United States and Canada who graduated from the five-month intensive program. The PLA provides advanced, hands-on training in areas such as data-driven crime reduction strategies, effective supervision and strengthening community trust.
The Policing Leadership Academy is the nation’s only law enforcement leadership program specifically designed to promote public safety and equity in cities across the country and beyond. It is grounded in University of Chicago Crime Lab research, which highlights the role strong management plays in increasing the effectiveness and fairness of policing.
“This program deepened my understanding of how leadership and data-informed strategies can be combined to make meaningful change,” said Division Chief Young. “I’m bringing back actionable tools and insights to continue building partnerships and trust in Chattanooga while focusing on reducing violence in our communities.”
This fourth cohort of the PLA began in January and concluded with graduation in May, and was at no cost to the city or department. Division Chief Young becomes the third CPD leader to complete this nationally recognized training. He follows Captain Jayevan Montgomery and Chief John Chambers, both of whom graduated in 2024.
Division Chief of Professional Standards David Young and Chief John Chambers