WALTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE MAJOR GRADUATES FROM PRESTIGIOUS FBI NATIONAL ACADEMY
Major Dustin Burlison of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office has graduated from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Major Burlison is now one of just over 56,000 law enforcement professionals to complete the FBI National Academy since its founding in 1935, a distinction earned by less than one percent of law enforcement 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 10-week program, known globally for its academic rigor and leadership training, is offered by invitation only to law enforcement leaders who have demonstrated exemplary performance and leadership within their agencies. The curriculum focuses on advanced communication, management, and fitness, with a strong emphasis on leadership development.
Major Burlison’s career in law enforcement began in 2005 when he was hired as a detention deputy. Over the past 19 years, he has served in numerous roles, including assignments in patrol, narcotics, property crimes, and continuous improvement. He also served for a decade on WCSO’s SWAT team.
Throughout his career, Burlison has held key leadership positions within the Sheriff’s Office, including District Commander, Training Bureau Chief, Professional Standards Bureau Chief, Judicial Services Bureau Chief, Jail Operations Bureau Chief, and currently serves as the Director of the Walton County Jail.
In 2022, he graduated from the National Command and Staff College, where he was honored with both the Capstone Award and the President’s Award, recognizing his academic achievement and leadership excellence. He also serves as an adjunct instructor for both Northwest Florida State College and the National Command and Staff College, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of law enforcement officers.
“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, strengthened leadership skills, and a renewed commitment to supporting the continued growth of our agency and the community we serve.