Chattanooga, TN – The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) announced that Division Chief of Professional Standards David Young has graduated from the prestigious Policing Leadership Academy (PLA), a top-tier program developed by the University of Chicago Crime Lab. The academy is designed to equip law enforcement leaders with the skills and strategies necessary to reduce violent crime and enhance police effectiveness.
Division Chief Young was one of only 35 police leaders selected from across the United States and Canada to complete the five-month intensive program. The PLA delivers advanced, hands-on training in key areas such as data-driven crime reduction, effective supervision, and building community trust.
“This program deepened my understanding of how leadership and data-informed strategies can be combined to make meaningful change,” said 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.”
Grounded in cutting-edge research from the University of Chicago Crime Lab, the Policing Leadership Academy is the only program of its kind focused specifically on promoting public safety and equity through law enforcement leadership. Its curriculum emphasizes the impact of strong management on fair and effective policing.
This fourth PLA cohort began in January and wrapped up in May 2025. The training was provided at no cost to the City of Chattanooga or CPD. Division Chief Young now joins an elite group of CPD leaders who have completed the program, including Captain Jayevan Montgomery and Chief John Chambers, both of whom graduated in 2024.
CPD officials say the program reflects their ongoing commitment to professional development and progressive policing strategies that benefit the Chattanooga community.