Rominger accepted

to FBI program
By Melanie Marshall

Watauga County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Dee Dee Rominger has been accepted to attend the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy (FBINA) in January of next year.

The FBINA is a 10-week program consisting of multiple areas of study for law enforcement officers held in Quantico, Va. The FBINA is held four times a year, with 250 attendees per session from across the U.S. and several other countries. The application process and waiting period range from one to two years for acceptance.

Rominger was recommended to attend by FBI agent Jim Meade, based in Hickory. Meade’s coverage area extends into Watauga and he and Rominger have worked together on multiple cases.

Meade first recommended the academy to Rominger in August 2008. “To even be considered as an applicant is a great and very prestigious honor,” Rominger said.

Her application was completed in January 2009 and submitted for approval. Rominger received notification two weeks ago that she had been selected to attend the winter 2010 session to run from January 10 to March 19.

The FBINA poses minimal cost to the county, as Rominger requested only travel expenses and the use of her assigned WCSO vehicle. She did not request the coverage of designated uniform expense from the county or the WCSO. Lodging, food and books are provided by the FBI.

The FBINA consists of classes and physical training. The course work includes leadership development, critical thinking, legal issues, forensic and behavioral sciences, and other issues related to law enforcement.

Prior to the start of the academy, officers review the available courses and register for specific fields of study.

“I will focusing on courses geared toward investigations,” Rominger said. “I will receive training that benefits not only me, but our agency.”

Rominger will be housed at the Quantico facility Monday through Friday during the ten-week academy.

Rominger serves as the WCSO captain of investigations. During her absence the patrol captain, communications captain and special operations captain will share her duties.

“There is a very capable staff in investigations,” Rominger said. “I feel very confident in their operation in my absence.”