Chief W.H. ‘Skip‘ Holbrook announces that Southeast Region Captain P.J. Blendowski, a 20-year veteran of the Columbia Police Department (CPD) has graduated from the 283rd session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Academy (NA).
The graduation ceremony took place this morning in Quantico, Virginia.
Captain Blendowski was among 235 fellow law enforcement officers representing 49 states and 21 countries, 5 military organizations, and 5 federal and civilian agencies to receive the graduate distinction. Blendowski joins four additional CPD Commanders who have completed the prestigious program.
CPD Captain P.J. Blendowski
Blendowski completed 10 weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions. Nationally, less than one percent of law enforcement officers have the opportunity to attend the program.
Captain Blendowski became a CPD officer in July 2002. During his tenure, he was promoted multiple times for his proven leadership skills.
Among his many assignments, Blendowski spent 13 years assigned to the Special Operations Bureau serving as a K-9 handler/trainer, and Unit Supervisor. In 2017, Blendowski was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned as a ‘Watch Commander,’ a position that deployed personnel and resources during major incidents and calls for service during a 12-hour shift.
After being promoted to Captain in 2020, Blendowski was assigned to and remains the commander of Southeast Region and its patrol officers in several areas including Five Points, Rosewood, Melrose Heights, Shandon, South Kilbourne and Woodcreek Farms communities.
Originally from Syracuse, New York, Blendowski earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of South Carolina.