Fletc 1811

[bain]

sorry if this has been posted before somewhere else, but can someone who has been through the citp at fletc give any info/advice about what daily life is like there? what did you think of the program? whats the pt/classes like? what a typical day is like? any info would help, thanks

[SA13]

A typical day starts at 8AM and ends at 4PM, however there are a few day where you will work at night. Also, your agency may have additional training scheduled in addition to what the FLETC staff has scheduled. There will be a mix of classroom academics related to legal studies, and investigative techniques. There will also be a mix of PT and Defensive Tactics. In the past PT and DT were separate classes, but recently they have been mixed. That means how much time is spent on PT v. DT will vary a little with what instructor you have.

DO NOT SHOW UP TO CITP UNLESS YOU ARE ALREADY IN GOOD (PREFERRABLY EXCELLENT) SHAPE! They are have little tolerance for people who want to use the training as a chance to get in shape. Your whole time at FLETC will be more difficult, and a lot less fun, if you are not in shape before you get there. Also, PT sessions are not really there to improve or maintain fitness, you will need to workout on your off time too. This is especially true for those who are going to follow on academies that are known for being physically demanding. USSS, ATF, and USMS, are examples (and there are others) of agencies that will have very physically demanding agency specific training.

You will also have time devoted to firearms. This will include range time, and qualifications, and some force on force training using Simunitions FX guns and ammo.

There will also be several practical exercises which will incorporate investigative techniques, and law enforcement tactics. These will require you to apply your classroom, DT, and firearms training, to simulated LE scenarios.

You will have several academic tests, and practical evaluations. Also there is an "continuing case investigation" that will require you to document information from your practical exercises as if it were part of an actual criminal investigation, this will include reports of investigation, affidavits in support of warrants.

There is no "typical day" as this will all be mixed together. However, you will get a schedule laying out all the days when you arrive for your first day of class.

If you asking this question in hopes of preparing for your time in CITP then my advice is to prepare yourself physically, as that is all you can really do on your own before you get there. If you are in great shape when you arrive then you will perform better in all aspects of training. If you're not you will be physically worn out and you will have trouble in academics, just because you can't concentrate from being sore or just plain tired. You will have trouble in firearms for the same reason, plus firearms training itself will place additional physical demands on you. The same is true of many of the practical exercises. Also, you will be more prone to injury than those who are in great shape. Being fit will allow you stay mentally sharp, and physically capable for all aspects of training.

[HEMITRP]

Great info !!! I was wondering about the DT at FLETC. I know at our academy we did alot of ground grappling, take downs, and weapon retention. We went full speed about 50% of the time. How does the DT at FLETC usually go? When you go on rus during PT, how long are your runs and at what pace? Thanks

[Up_On_Base]

Great info !!! I was wondering about the DT at FLETC. I know at our academy we did alot of ground grappling, take downs, and weapon retention. We went full speed about 50% of the time. How does the DT at FLETC usually go? When you go on rus during PT, how long are your runs and at what pace? Thanks

DT/PT has changed since I was at FLETC, they used to be separate classes now they are together. Here is what I recall from a couple of years ago.

PT runs were 3-5 miles (8:00 pace) with "breaks" to perform push ups, sit ups, and pull ups. DT was broken up in to different sections, arrest techniques and then DT grappling/weapon retention/take downs but no boxing, to many injuries.

Some of the higher speed agencies like ATF/USSS/USMS had additional PT sessions once/twice a week @ 05:00 - 06:15 were you would run 3 miles with additional cals.

FLETC offers very good and well rounded training, the scenario based training is awesome and so is the driver training. Everything else is above average, be in shape and it's a good time. I think it should be more para military but that is not how the feds train except for some agencies (Border Patrol/DEA).

[HEMITRP]

Thanks for the info, sems like running is paramount regardless what everything else is like !!!!!!!!!

[Meat]

DO NOT SHOW UP TO CITP UNLESS YOU ARE ALREADY IN GOOD (PREFERRABLY EXCELLENT) SHAPE! They are have little tolerance for people who want to use the training as a chance to get in shape. Your whole time at FLETC will be more difficult, and a lot less fun, if you are not in shape before you get there. Also, PT sessions are not really there to improve or maintain fitness, you will need to workout on your off time too.

Hmm...we had several people in our CITP class that I would consider "morbidly obese" (one was about 5'9" 400lbs) and they had no problems since there is no way to fail PT. As long as you "participate" you cannot fail. One of them walked the 1.5 mile run to the tune of 31 minutes and passed. Pretty pathetic really. If you've ever been to a real police academy then your jaw will hit the floor when you see what's allowed in CITP versus a real police academy. lol

[bain]

thanks for the replies- so is that true that you can not "fail out" of citp for low pt scores? how are the academics there? about how many hours do people study per night/weekends? what is there to do weekends? sorry for all the questions, just very curious about it- thanks

[Up_On_Base]

PT is agency specific but I think there is now a FLETC PT standard to graduate.

For example, the USSS has a certain point system you must obtain or they show you the door, we had a guy bounced from my class and was not allowed to continue training in MD once he graduated FLETC.

[copter]

PT is agency specific but I think there is now a FLETC PT standard to graduate.

For example, the USSS has a certain point system you must obtain or they show you the door, we had a guy bounced from my class and was not allowed to continue training in MD once he graduated FLETC.
I am far from an expert in this field but I think Up_On_Base is correct.
Check out this link,(Practical Exercise Performance Requirements)
http://www.fletc.gov/student-information/student-information-bulletin/glynco/master-peprs.pdf/view

[SA13]

Hmm...we had several people in our CITP class that I would consider "morbidly obese" (one was about 5'9" 400lbs) and they had no problems since there is no way to fail PT. As long as you "participate" you cannot fail. One of them walked the 1.5 mile run to the tune of 31 minutes and passed. Pretty pathetic really. If you've ever been to a real police academy then your jaw will hit the floor when you see what's allowed in CITP versus a real police academy. lolWell you'll notice I never mentioned failing out for PT. However, if someone is even a little out of shape they are going to struggle to keep up. Also, as I stated if you're struggling in PT/DT then you're going to be wiped out for the rest of the day. Meaning you won't be as sharp while in your other areas of training. Finally it should be noted that some agencies do have a PT standard and will require that students show up able to pass that standard. If the scores of the initial PT test aren't satisfactory those students are out of a job and sent home.

[DF22]

I have heard in the past that FLETC was six days a week and then changed to five days a week. Does anyone know currently what the weekly schedule is like? Just curious of those there can head home for a weekend or two during their three months.

[Up_On_Base]

I have heard in the past that FLETC was six days a week and then changed to five days a week. Does anyone know currently what the weekly schedule is like? Just curious of those there can head home for a weekend or two during their three months.

Last I heard FLETC is now 6 days a week again, if you want to see family your best bet is have them fly to Jacksonville or Savannah. Both cities are an hour drive from Brunswick and once classes are over for the day the time is yours.

[DF22]

Last I heard FLETC is now 6 days a week again, if you want to see family your best bet is have them fly to Jacksonville or Savannah. Both cities are an hour drive from Brunswick and once classes are over for the day the time is yours.

Thank you for the information I'm sure I will be getting the specifics soon but I wanted to start planning ahead.

[HEMITRP]

Is CITP a class filled with a bunch of different agencies? If so how many days a week do you PT? Is there alot of study time involved after the day is over? I would hate to have to stay in a room a majority of the time down there because I am having to study. Also, has anyone been to a USMS graduation? Is it real formal or is it just "way to go, heres your badge, go to work" kinda thing?

[Meat]

I am far from an expert in this field but I think Up_On_Base is correct.
Check out this link,(Practical Exercise Performance Requirements)
http://www.fletc.gov/student-information/student-information-bulletin/glynco/master-peprs.pdf/view


You will notice the key word in the requirements being "Participate In"...that means there are no time constraints. You can take all day to walk or crawl the 1.5 mile run and any other activities, as long as you don't just quit.

[Meat]

Well you'll notice I never mentioned failing out for PT. However, if someone is even a little out of shape they are going to struggle to keep up. Also, as I stated if you're struggling in PT/DT then you're going to be wiped out for the rest of the day. Meaning you won't be as sharp while in your other areas of training. Finally it should be noted that some agencies do have a PT standard and will require that students show up able to pass that standard. If the scores of the initial PT test aren't satisfactory those students are out of a job and sent home.

Wow, you seem like you're getting kinda worked up over this which is really weird. But anyway, I don't see how walking a mile and a half is going "wipe out" ANYONE, fat slob or not. After our obese crew finished walking their day through PT, they went straight into their backpacks for candy, chips, pretzels, pop, and cigarettes. No joke. So they were hardly "wiped out." lol.

CITP is a mix of different agencies usually. We had 4 different agencies in our class, and they all fell under CITP's "requirements" for PT (including USSS). After CITP, most agencies continue with their agency-specific academy, which can definitely have much stricter PT/DT requirements. But the question was addressed to CITP specifically, which is a joke IMO.

[GoldBadge]

Is CITP a class filled with a bunch of different agencies? If so how many days a week do you PT? Is there alot of study time involved after the day is over? I would hate to have to stay in a room a majority of the time down there because I am having to study. Also, has anyone been to a USMS graduation? Is it real formal or is it just "way to go, heres your badge, go to work" kinda thing?

CITP classes are generally set-up 50-50; such as 50% USSS and the other half ICE or mixed OIG's.

PT is once or twice a week - not very much.

Study time? It depends. Some folks studied very little and got by and some studied each night. For most, it's not bad at all, but it would be wise to at least study before a day or two the few big written tests they give.

At CITP graduation, no creds are issued, you just get your CITP certificate. Each add on graduation is different, but most get their creds at the field offices.

[SA13]

Wow, you seem like you're getting kinda worked up over this which is really weird.Not getting worked up in the least. But anyway, I don't see how walking a mile and a half is going "wipe out" ANYONE, fat slob or not.I don't know when you went through, or who your instructors were, but I guarantee that when I went through our instructors would not have allowed some to walk during PT. They would be told to either run or to go to the trainer to report whatever ailment kept them from participating. Note the emphasis on participating. People can get kicked out of CITP for not participating, and the instructors I had at CITP would be eager to document any slacker that tried to walk through PT, and was repeatedly referred to the trainer to report an ailment that would keep them from participating in PT. So the out of shape people were either forced to struggle through PT, or repeatedly report to the trainer and risk being kicked out for not participating. So we had people who struggled through PT, and that affected their performance in other areas.
But the question was addressed to CITP specifically . . .Again, please note my earlier comment.

"Finally it should be noted that some agencies do have a PT standard and will require that students show up able to pass that standard. If the scores of the initial PT test aren't satisfactory those students are out of a job and sent home."

That refers to the first PT test at CITP. Some agencies will examine the scores from that first PEB and if you don't meet the standards you are sent home. Two of the agencies I've worked for did this. We lost people from our class in CITP, and then when I went to my follow-on for the other agency I learned people had been sent home during CITP for failing the PEB.. . . which is a joke IMOCould and should the PT/DT training be more rigorous? Definitely. However, I do know that several instructors down there will not let people slack off during PT/DT, and if someone has one of those instructors they better be in shape when they get to CITP. Again, you experience may be different, but I guarantee no one ever regretted showing up in great shape. However, I know that several people have regretted showing up in poor or mediocre shape. Including several people who had their careers in Fed LE ended before they ever really started.

[HEMITRP]

Thanks GoldBadge for the info. I have never been to FLETC so I am trying to get a feel for whats in store. I will be curious to see how the Fed. training is run compared to the SHP academy I went through here. We are paramilitary, 28 weeks long and it is TIGHTLY RUN. PT is extremely intense and the dropout rate is very high. I haven't met any former troopers that are now with the G so I use this forum to kinda get a feel for whats coming.

[Up_On_Base]

Thanks GoldBadge for the info. I have never been to FLETC so I am trying to get a feel for whats in store. I will be curious to see how the Fed. training is run compared to the SHP academy I went through here. We are paramilitary, 28 weeks long and it is TIGHTLY RUN. PT is extremely intense and the dropout rate is very high. I haven't met any former troopers that are now with the G so I use this forum to kinda get a feel for whats coming.

We had several former MD troopers that joined the USSS-UD, they all said FLETC was a joke compared to their training. The USSS add for PT/DT was about the same, the amount of time on the range was much more w/ USSS but not a total para-military enviroment so it was less stressfull overall.

You will find the feds are much more laid back, FLETC is college w/ a purpose...and guns.

[HEMITRP]

That sounds good to me !!!!!!!!!! I figure the ad on will be more difficult, I am in the process with USMS. I have spoken to a few of the deputies here and they echoed what you said. Our agency used PT as a motivator as well as a punishment. I can remember having a strawberry on my tailbone the size of a tennis ball from where we would do so many sit ups. Everyone would run and their backside would just bleed from where it got opened up everyday. We went from 5 am to 6:30 am everyday with PT. Our DT was very, very good with alot of grappling and at the end we would have to box our roomate. I have heard that CITP is a good class and you learn alot so I am excited about that. I guess you do firearms in CITP and again with your add on, is that right? Is the firearms training good?

[Up_On_Base]

That sounds good to me !!!!!!!!!! I figure the ad on will be more difficult, I am in the process with USMS. I have spoken to a few of the deputies here and they echoed what you said. Our agency used PT as a motivator as well as a punishment. I can remember having a strawberry on my tailbone the size of a tennis ball from where we would do so many sit ups. Everyone would run and their backside would just bleed from where it got opened up everyday. We went from 5 am to 6:30 am everyday with PT. Our DT was very, very good with alot of grappling and at the end we would have to box our roomate. I have heard that CITP is a good class and you learn alot so I am excited about that. I guess you do firearms in CITP and again with your add on, is that right? Is the firearms training good?

The firearms instructors are very good down there, usally some USSS guys and a mix of other agencies. I have no complaints about FLETC training, it was excellent but some agencies hire some slugs and it makes everyone look bad. You will have a good time, USMS is one of the better agencies there and are more squared away than most.

Enjoy the chicken and fire ants...

[HEMITRP]

You know, the chicken and fire ants theme seems to ba a reaccuring joke around these threads !!!!!!! Its a small price to pay for a good career. We had gut grenedes and turd busters at our academy. The food was an ongoing experiment through North Carolina State University, at least thats the conclusion we came up with. At least at FLETC you can go out after training. We couldn't leave. Our day was from 5 am till 10 pm. After dinner we had intensive spanish, then we had more DT, then dorm clean up, then study time, then bedtime at 10. No time to unwind or rest, constant stress.

[4X4toy07]

Good info on FLETC to all that have submitted. All agents have stressed the importance of being in shape in the first place, or just don't apply...

I seriously doubt those fat bodies were in a government agent position.

I'm headed down to FLETC in the late winter.
I've heard around various camp fires that the 6 day schedule constitutes Overtime. As a Diplomatic Security SA candidate, we recieve locality pay while in training on top of our Foreign Service pay, yet how is OT calculated into our pay?
I recieved word that a lot of the PT is self-directed but you'll have to be in shape in order to execute your way through the training evolutions as many of you mentioned. I'm looking forward to the grappling and weapons stuff of course; the DS guys will go onto more specific training after we leave FLETC anyhow.

[Bearcat357]

I seriously doubt those fat bodies were in a government agent position.

Ummm....they are.....

Why would the above posted post that stuff if they weren't....as they have been there and you haven't yet.... :rolleyes:

[Bearcat357]

You will find the feds are much more laid back, FLETC is college w/ a purpose...and guns.

Thats a real good way to put it.......

As it will surprise folks that think it's some High Speed/Low Drag kinda place compaired to State Academies......

[4X4toy07]

Ummm....they are.....

Why would the above posted post that stuff if they weren't....as they have been there and you haven't yet.... :rolleyes:

I've read a lot replies on these threads that alerts the BS meter that's why...
Thanks for answering the questions... or not... shall I say thanks for taking a poke at the fat body comment LOL!

[Bearcat357]

I've read a lot replies on these threads that alerts the BS meter that's why...
Thanks for answering the questions... or not... shall I say thanks for taking a poke at the fat body comment LOL!

Everyone that has been answering questions on here (myself included) have been to FLETC....so......

All you have to do is go back and look at their (or my) prior postings....and see we usually know what we are talking about....just an FYI.....

[4X4toy07]

Everyone that has been answering questions on here (myself included) have been to FLETC....so......

All you have to do is go back and look at their (or my) prior postings....and see we usually know what we are talking about....just an FYI.....

No one questioned whether or not you knew what you were talking about.
In previous replies on this thread, however, there was debate on whether or not fat bodies could make the cut or not, hence the comment that was made.

OK, since you've been to FLETC, and are knowledgeable in this area, any ideas on what rate is given for OT with a 6-day work week?

[FutureTrooper1]

Des each agency differ in their requirements? I hear that ATF has a bench press requirement but no pushup requirement.

Can you fail for the sit and reach test?

[Bearcat357]

Does each agency differ in their requirements?

Yes...there is FLETC Standard and then a individual Agency Standard.....

[Bearcat357]

OK, since you've been to FLETC, and are knowledgeable in this area, any ideas on what rate is given for OT with a 6-day work week?

Have no clue....as everytime I have been there, I trained on a 5-day work week......

[GoldBadge]

any ideas on what rate is given for OT with a 6-day work week?

Many/most agencies give their people LEAP for the six day week.

[bain]

thanks for the info guys- just a few more questions about academics- are there tests weekly? do more people get kicked out for pt or failing academic tests? thanks again for the info

[GB0610]

thanks for the info guys- just a few more questions about academics- are there tests weekly? do more people get kicked out for pt or failing academic tests? thanks again for the info

More academic than anything else (tests and practical exams). But even then, the flunk out rate is much lower than a State/Local academy.

And the OT rate for the 6th day depends on your agency. Most a time and a half, others are double time while others rely on LEAP.

[GoldBadge]

And the OT rate for the 6th day depends on your agency. Most a time and a half, others are double time while others rely on LEAP.

I haven't heard of any agencies paying their agents time and a half or double time for CITP. It was either straight salary (for a 40 hour week - yes it was unfair, but some agencies took the 'take it or leave it' position) or LEAP.

[rix031]

Good info on FLETC to all that have submitted. All agents have stressed the importance of being in shape in the first place, or just don't apply...

I seriously doubt those fat bodies were in a government agent position.

I'm headed down to FLETC in the late winter.
I've heard around various camp fires that the 6 day schedule constitutes Overtime. As a Diplomatic Security SA candidate, we recieve locality pay while in training on top of our Foreign Service pay, yet how is OT calculated into our pay?
I recieved word that a lot of the PT is self-directed but you'll have to be in shape in order to execute your way through the training evolutions as many of you mentioned. I'm looking forward to the grappling and weapons stuff of course; the DS guys will go onto more specific training after we leave FLETC anyhow.

FYI, you keep misspelling "receive." i before e EXCEPT after c and there are MANY fat bodies at fletc that are agents!!

[SA13]

Des each agency differ in their requirements? I hear that ATF has a bench press requirement but no pushup requirement.

Can you fail for the sit and reach test?A good friend of mine went through training with ATF a little over a year ago. He said they got rid of the pushup test that used to be done at the end of the ATF follow-on, but they do have requirements to reach certain scores on the 1.5 mile run, agility test, and bench press when taking the PEB. They did the PEB twice during CITP, and twice at the ATF follow-on. Failing any of them meant the person was out of a job. However, he said you will do pleny of pushups and pullups there.

[GB0610]

I haven't heard of any agencies paying their agents time and a half or double time for CITP. It was either straight salary (for a 40 hour week - yes it was unfair, but some agencies took the 'take it or leave it' position) or LEAP.

Ya, sorry. I was including all of the Agencies that train there, not just those in CITP.

[Meat]

I seriously doubt those fat bodies were in a government agent position.




Umm...yeah, they were. One (the 400lb'er) was an ICE Special Agent, and two were CIS Special Agents (one was about 300lbs, the other was about 350lbs).

[Meat]

I don't know when you went through, or who your instructors were, but I guarantee that when I went through our instructors would not have allowed some to walk during PT.


I just graduated in September so this info is VERY recent and accurate. There were NUMEROUS people allowed to walk during PT and nothing was said to discourage it. And this was while being "trained" by numerous different PT instructors (who were in pretty poor shape themselves).

Maybe I'm just biased, having spent 12yrs as a street cop and graduating from a REAL police academy.

But all I know is, half of the BS allowed at CITP would not be allowed in a real police academy. I don't know of a single police academy where recruits would be allowed to text their friends during class and takes breaks whenever they want, and be allowed to come back from a 15-minute break 30 minutes late.

And don't even get me started on the late-night parties outside the dorms 7 days a week, and waking up to dozens of beer bottles in the bushes and broken on the sidewalks just about every morning. Oh, and the daily maid service...LOL

[4X4toy07]

Umm...yeah, they were. One (the 400lb'er) was an ICE Special Agent, and two were CIS Special Agents (one was about 300lbs, the other was about 350lbs).

DISCLAIMER

TO ALL: Please forgive me.
My statement about fat-bodied federal LEOs shows my ignorance about the federal LE community as a whole, and ended up being cannon fodder to all who have called me out about it. Forgive me and remove my sins for ignorance sake, amen!.
I assumed the fitness standards of ALL federal law enforcement agents would not allow out-of-shape fat bodies to remain so.


There will be fat-bodies at FLETC I guarantee.

[GB0610]

I just graduated in September so this info is VERY recent and accurate. There were NUMEROUS people allowed to walk during PT and nothing was said to discourage it. And this was while being "trained" by numerous different PT instructors (who were in pretty poor shape themselves).

Maybe I'm just biased, having spent 12yrs as a street cop and graduating from a REAL police academy.

But all I know is, half of the BS allowed at CITP would not be allowed in a real police academy. I don't know of a single police academy where recruits would be allowed to text their friends during class and takes breaks whenever they want, and be allowed to come back from a 15-minute break 30 minutes late.

And don't even get me started on the late-night parties outside the dorms 7 days a week, and waking up to dozens of beer bottles in the bushes and broken on the sidewalks just about every morning. Oh, and the daily maid service...LOL

Amen and.......amen.

I have been to FLETC 3 times for training of some sort. I have been completely discourged by many of my classmates and those seen around the campus. Its sad to see the shape so many are allowed to come in at. I could go on and on and on with numerous examples.....

Its primarily the Agency's (whichever one it is in each instance) fault for allowing it in the first place.

[Up_On_Base]

Amen and.......amen.

I have been to FLETC 3 times for training of some sort. I have been completely discourged by many of my classmates and those seen around the campus. Its sad to see the shape so many are allowed to come in at. I could go on and on and on with numerous examples.....

Its primarily the Agency's (whichever one it is in each instance) fault for allowing it in the first place.


I agree with the above posters, FLETC/parent agencies needs to crack down on some recruits. From what I remember about 70% of the people at the FLETC were in decent shape but the other 30% were a mess.

The thing you have to remember is not all of these individuals will be performing traditional LE and the parent agency probably doesn’t see the need for paramilitary type training. If you look at the higher speed agencies (USSS, ATF, USMS, DSS, etc) there will be an add on training program where if you are a slug you get bounced.

I am not sure why the FEDS are some lax, probably scared of getting sued for some form of discrimination against fat people. I know many of the PT instructors were disgusted w/ some recruits but there was nothing they could do except laugh when someone could not run a mile.

Before attending FLETC I thought being a FED was for the "best of the best", since then I realized that most state/city agencies are much better and have better benefits. There are some excellent federal agencies like FBI, DEA, USSS, ATF, USPIS, and some others but there are also some horrible agencies that drag everyone else down.

[HEMITRP]

While down at FLETC, what is the standard uniform of the day while attending CITP? I see where there is alot of debate about the different physical fitness standards of the different agencies. It seems to me that if they only PT once or twice a week, you really aren't accomplishing anything, especially if you can walk and sandbag. With my current agency, we have very, very high physical standards but its with the reasoning that if you get in a fight, you have to have the stamina to last the duration of the fight. Ask any street cop or Trooper and they will tell you a 3-5 minute all out fight will drain you. I cant imagine a 400 lb agent getting in a fight on the side of the road and having a chance. Any DT instructor will tell you that the turd that you are fighting will eventually get your gun and then its nothing but the funeral.

[Up_On_Base]

While down at FLETC, what is the standard uniform of the day while attending CITP? I see where there is alot of debate about the different physical fitness standards of the different agencies. It seems to me that if they only PT once or twice a week, you really aren't accomplishing anything, especially if you can walk and sandbag. With my current agency, we have very, very high physical standards but its with the reasoning that if you get in a fight, you have to have the stamina to last the duration of the fight. Ask any street cop or Trooper and they will tell you a 3-5 minute all out fight will drain you. I cant imagine a 400 lb agent getting in a fight on the side of the road and having a chance. Any DT instructor will tell you that the turd that you are fighting will eventually get your gun and then its nothing but the funeral.

They will give you several uniforms on your first day, I think they might have changed to BDU's for the pants but the old uniforms were light blue shirt, dark blue pants, and black boots (you bring those).

My agency gave us our gunbelts/cuffs/etc during orientation before we left for FLETC.

Hope you get to stay at the Taj (nice place)...enjoy the maid service and don't worry to much about walking long distances, there are several buses all over the campus. Some people even bring bikes, as you can tell is not boot camp.

I know we are ripping on FLETC for being too lax but the training is very good, just not traditional police academy environment. I thought the driver training and practical exercises were great. Also, many of instructors are former Feds/Troopers/City cops so you get the full spectrum of LE training.

[LawDog99]

Ask any street cop or Trooper and they will tell you a 3-5 minute all out fight will drain you.

More like 1 minute. That will be the LONGEST 1 minute of your life, especially after a foot pursuit.

[sabresfan]

I am not saying this is true in all cases, but when I went through all the overweight people I saw were from the BOP. I asked them about it and they told my that all employees are required to go through a 3 week training, with no real physical requirements. Thats why they were overweight, since most were just cooks and such. If I remember correctly their PT requirement was run 1/4 mile and handcuff someone, in something like 2 min 30 sec or more.

[Kelly828]

Hmm...Ok, I totally agree that LEO's need to obtain/maintain a level of fitness to deal with various situations. I would contend that maintaining good health is probably most beneficial in dealing with the daily stress of the job and not so much "throwing a guy down" or whatnot.

I'm not a special agent but I'm a state LEO and work with various federal guys on occasion. From my observations, the majority of their work is investigating (read: desk work, interviewing folks, traveling for hours in a g-ride, reading a LOT of paperwork, etc). Not often are they knocking down doors or chasing someone on foot. OK, USMS for sure since fugitives/warrant service is kind of their thing. You guys seem to still be comparing their work to what local/state officers/troopers do.

Again, I'm not an agent but what I've seen of their "daily grind" requires brain power and not so much physical fitness. I imagine the US Attorney could care less who can do 100 push ups but really likes the investigators that bring solid, prosecutable cases. I'm not saying fitness isn't important. I'm a fan of living a long, healthy life. Just trying to add a few new thoughts to the discussion. Take care!

[HEMITRP]

I agree with most of the above mentioned comments, however I think appearance can help with getting the job done. When you get out of the car or knock on a door and the suspect sees a chunk of lard or a sloppy looking LEO, he is going to try and get by on you. But if you take a squared away, in shape, sharp looking officer and the suspect will think twice about it. But thats getting away from the point of this thread. It still surprises me seeing all this stuff about late night parties and tripping over beer bottles etc coming from a federal law enforcement training facility. Maybe I expect to see a bunch of disciplined 007's or something but it is just surprising reading that. I dont see how in the world anyone has time for all that if your up at 5am and then in class all day followed by PT with your host agency. Dont get me wrong, I'm all about a relaxed training enviroment. Like I said, its just a bit surprising.

[Up_On_Base]

I agree with most of the above mentioned comments, however I think appearance can help with getting the job done. When you get out of the car or knock on a door and the suspect sees a chunk of lard or a sloppy looking LEO, he is going to try and get by on you. But if you take a squared away, in shape, sharp looking officer and the suspect will think twice about it. But thats getting away from the point of this thread. It still surprises me seeing all this stuff about late night parties and tripping over beer bottles etc coming from a federal law enforcement training facility. Maybe I expect to see a bunch of disciplined 007's or something but it is just surprising reading that. I dont see how in the world anyone has time for all that if your up at 5am and then in class all day followed by PT with your host agency. Dont get me wrong, I'm all about a relaxed training enviroment. Like I said, its just a bit surprising.

You will only see a couple of agencies like USSS UD/SA's, USMS, ATF, and a couple others doing PT @ 05:00. I know all the people from my USSS-UD class were in bed by 11ish after group study time. Most of the people involved in late night parties are CBP/BOP, those guys were in the pool everyday drinking until late.

Trust me the higher speed agenices are squared away, it's the other one's that make everyone look bad. But...on the weekends it is party time for all.

[george4]

I was never up at 5 during my stint @ FLETC with ss/ud. It is true that the BOP leads the league in party skills but we finished a strong runner-up. The fact of the matter is the tests were just not that difficult. The PT was not easy but Beltsville was much harder. We were squared away and still found plenty of time to party. Enjoy FLETC, study hard, and do not take yourself so serious that you forget how to unwind.

[Up_On_Base]

I was never up at 5 during my stint @ FLETC with ss/ud. It is true that the BOP leads the league in party skills but we finished a strong runner-up. The fact of the matter is the tests were just not that difficult. The PT was not easy but Beltsville was much harder. We were squared away and still found plenty of time to party. Enjoy FLETC, study hard, and do not take yourself so serious that you forget how to unwind.

You were lucky George4, we had to meet our Sgt atleast once a week @ 4:45 for a run usually on a day when there was no FLETC PT. He would run each UD class on seperate days, sometimes we would perform a large group run w/ other USSS classes.

I guess the AM run was something new, I know the SA's would also have an AM run once a week.

[GoldBadge]

I guess the AM run was something new, I know the SA's would also have an AM run once a week.

It's been around for a while because I went though it as an SA - once or twice a week. Boy did I hate that. Getting up that early for a dose of torture.

There weren't many widebodies when I went through CITP and certainly none that were 300-400 pounds. Maybe a couple with spare tires coming in, but they lost most (if not all) of it before they left. My guess is that those obese agents at FLETC are generally working for smaller agencies that involve more office work than anything else and their agencies don't care if they run the 1.5 mile in 10 minutes or 10 hours.

CITP was never designed to be a boot camp. FLETC allowed agencies to set their own fitness standards and you would see that more evident during the various add ons.

[HEMITRP]

I live in North Carolina and know about summer heat, I was wondering if FLETC has a ceiling that they won't exceed with heat. If it is 95 degrees do you still PT in the day or will they make after dinner or early morning? I know with USMS where I will be they have extensive PT sessions. Do they go forward in the heat or do they adjust so there isn't a risk of heat stroke etc? I run trails in the summer here and I am used to it, but for someone that isnt used to it can get messed up. Also, I asked this earlier in the thread and no one answered it, but is the graduation from the agency specific portion a big deal or is it just kinda "heres your badge, heres your gun, go to work" kinda thing? I know with my current agency its a big, formal ceremony and you honor someone by letting them pin your badge. Also, what kind of things do you need to take with you to FLETC that they wont put on your list. Any little tricks from some of you guys that have been there would help.

[GoldBadge]

I live in North Carolina and know about summer heat, I was wondering if FLETC has a ceiling that they won't exceed with heat. If it is 95 degrees do you still PT in the day or will they make after dinner or early morning? I know with USMS where I will be they have extensive PT sessions. Do they go forward in the heat or do they adjust so there isn't a risk of heat stroke etc?

South Georgia gets pretty brutal in the summer. In really hot/humid days, they'll fly a black flag at FLETC indicating no outdoor PT. On days with lesser heat they fly other colored flags (I don't remember what they were as it's been a while :o ). Green flag days means PT as usual.

[HEMITRP]

Thats kinda what I figured. Thanks GoldBadge.

[deyosurf19]

I live in North Carolina and know about summer heat, I was wondering if FLETC has a ceiling that they won't exceed with heat. If it is 95 degrees do you still PT in the day or will they make after dinner or early morning? I know with USMS where I will be they have extensive PT sessions. Do they go forward in the heat or do they adjust so there isn't a risk of heat stroke etc? I run trails in the summer here and I am used to it, but for someone that isnt used to it can get messed up. Also, I asked this earlier in the thread and no one answered it, but is the graduation from the agency specific portion a big deal or is it just kinda "heres your badge, heres your gun, go to work" kinda thing? I know with my current agency its a big, formal ceremony and you honor someone by letting them pin your badge. Also, what kind of things do you need to take with you to FLETC that they wont put on your list. Any little tricks from some of you guys that have been there would help.

No one still has answered the question about the graduation ceremony from FLETC.

So is it a big deal? Are there families there? Or is it kind of small and subdued? Do they do the whole badge pinning salute deal?

[GoldBadge]

No one still has answered the question about the graduation ceremony from FLETC.

So is it a big deal? Are there families there? Or is it kind of small and subdued? Do they do the whole badge pinning salute deal?

Check post #17 on this thread.

Graduation from CITP is no big deal at all. Very few family members - no credentials are issued at the graduation, just CITP certificates.

[HEMITRP]

I understand that. I am asking about the agency specific portion. USMS, USSS, ATF etc. When you graduate their portion of your time at FLETC, and you are thereby deemed a special agent, deputy marshal etc, is that a big deal with a ceremony or just a "here you go, go to work" kinda thing.

[Up_On_Base]

I understand that. I am asking about the agency specific portion. USMS, USSS, ATF etc. When you graduate their portion of your time at FLETC, and you are thereby deemed a special agent, deputy marshal etc, is that a big deal with a ceremony or just a "here you go, go to work" kinda thing.

For the USSS it was not a big deal, you got a cert and then hopped in your car for MD. You still need to graduate the USSS training which is 12-15 weeks, that is a formal ceramony but nothing like this state police graduation...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5liO4zFVuI

[h6cayuse]

I've been reading this thread for a bit and something struck me. Who cares how hard or easy the PT is. The easiest answer is to bust your behind to get into shape and be prepared. If it turns out that it's a joke, then you are still in shape. Anyways, as a former MD state trooper, the #1 killer of all law enforcement officers is complacency. If you are a fat donut eating officer, you should be ashamed. I've seen cases when people murdered officers. When they were asked how they chose their victims, almost all said they chose that officer because they looked out of shape and lazy and they thought they could take them. In other words, have some pride and get in shape and look like an agent. :cool:

[LawDog99]

WOW, Connecticut State Police academy graduation blew mine out of the water! Time to go PT now that the motovation is running high.

[GoldBadge]

I understand that. I am asking about the agency specific portion. USMS, USSS, ATF etc. When you graduate their portion of your time at FLETC, and you are thereby deemed a special agent, deputy marshal etc, is that a big deal with a ceremony or just a "here you go, go to work" kinda thing.

Some are big deals, but most aren't. In most agencies, you don't get your creds until you finish all training and are back at the field office. Once you receive them, you are authorized to act as a special agent for the agency. Up until that point you are still a "special agent" for personnel paperwork purposes while in training, but your authority is neutered.

I'm not sure what the USMS graduation is like.

[SA13]

Some are big deals, but most aren't. In most agencies, you don't get your creds until you finish all training and are back at the field office. I've only heard of that type of thing with OIG agencies. With the more traditional LE agencies, the badge and creds are usually presented in a ceremony at the end of the training. Usually they issue the duty weapon right after the ceremony before you leave to make the trip back to your home office.

Last time I was at FLETC after switching agencies we got our badge and creds at the ceremony, awards were given out. Most were leaving FLETC ASAP so we immediately went to get issued our second badge, handgun, three mags, and a box of 50 rounds. Anyone that was not leaving right away was required to check the gun in at the armory, and pick it up when they finally departed the facility.

[redsox505]

I have a quick question regarding FLETC. If I opt to take my vehicle, how much would parking cost per month? Anyone have an idea? Thanks!

[ud22206]

parking is free at fletc.

[Jcgiant73]

Great posts everyone!

I am starting CITP in a little while. Just wondering about the size of CITP and how the classes are run.

There are 24-25 agents in my class. Do we stick together most of the time or are we all mixed up with USSS/ICE/ATF etc.?

How many students all together in CITP for a session?

Just curious...See you DS'ers soon...

[SA13]

I am starting CITP in a little while. Just wondering about the size of CITP and how the classes are run.The classes are supposed to be 48 people (give or take a few), split into two training groups of 24. Sometimes all 48 are together, usually during academic sessions in the classroom, and at other times the two smaller groups are off doing separate activities.There are 24-25 agents in my class. Do we stick together most of the time or are we all mixed up with USSS/ICE/ATF etc.?You should have other students to make the total work out to approximately 48. Depending on who the current powers at be are, and what deals they've worked out with your agency you may have your half of the class be just the students from your agency, or you may be mixed. Alot of time they just split the class up alphabetically, so the first 24 are together and the last 24 are together. So it's likely you'll be mixed with students from other agencies.

[Jcgiant73]

Thanks for the info SA13. I guess I will see soon enough...

[ICEAGENT]

Great posts everyone!

I am starting CITP in a little while. Just wondering about the size of CITP and how the classes are run.

There are 24-25 agents in my class. Do we stick together most of the time or are we all mixed up with USSS/ICE/ATF etc.?

How many students all together in CITP for a session?

Just curious...See you DS'ers soon...

This thread is all very good info about CITP and 1811 add-ons. CITP is generally 48 students. Usually, the larger agencies (USSS, ATF, ICE, USMS, IRS) take up 24 slots at a time. So, you might end up with USSS/ATF, ATF/ICE, etc for a class. The smaller agencies have just a few in a given class.

The class is cut in half alphabetically (A side and B side). This will be your group for ORT, firearms and tactics training. Within that group, there will be three groups of 8 which is your CCI (Continuing Case Investigation) group. These are the people with whom you will investigate your mock case and present it to the grand jury at the end.

IMO, the CCI is probably the best part of CITP. The role players do a great job for the most part so it actually ends up being pretty realistic.

[GoldBadge]

Within that group, there will be three groups of 8 which is your CCI (Continuing Case Investigation) group. These are the people with whom you will investigate your mock case and present it to the grand jury at the end.

Is it still the "Grouper" case? :p

[ICEAGENT]

Is it still the "Grouper" case? :p

As far as I know, yes Grouper is still the scourge of Glynco. Don't worry, the SGFTF will get him one of these days. :D

[SoCalFed]

I just spoke with a current CITP student and he confirmed Grouper is alive and well in their CCI. Apparently there are some changes from the previous CITP format, including the merging of PT and DT portions of the training...

[4X4toy07]

Right now, I've heard the CITP classes are going 6 days a week--students getting OT pay. However, it's been mentioned that the next class will not have a 6 day schedule due to over-worked students and instructors. Anyone have any intel on this?

[GoldBadge]

Right now, I've heard the CITP classes are going 6 days a week--students getting OT pay. However, it's been mentioned that the next class will not have a 6 day schedule due to over-worked students and instructors. Anyone have any intel on this?

I don't have any new intell. but I can tell you that the "overworked" song and dance has been used for years. It never "worked."

The one thing that surprises me is that CITP getting OT. They used to give LEAP or nothing at all.

[4X4toy07]

I don't have any new intell. but I can tell you that the "overworked" song and dance has been used for years. It never "worked."

The one thing that surprises me is that CITP getting OT. They used to give LEAP or nothing at all.

On the DS side, we receive locality at FLETC, yet we get LEAP once we've completed BSAC or the last evolution of the training--get the badge etc.
I'll know by the spring time if we'll get OT or something like it.

[Jcgiant73]

In an email I received from DSS HR, they said that:

"You will receive overtime pay for any Saturday spent in training at FLETC."

So I won't mind the extra training day if they are going to pay me extra Benjamins.

[Jcgiant73]

Any more FLETC tips for those of us starting in the very near future?

Happy Holidays everyone!....

[ec2749]

Has anyone taken the LMPT at fletc? I just want to know how rigorous the academics/pt/anything else is? What are the requirements for passing the agility portion at fletc? Also, why does LMPT take 6 months while other basic programs take less time? Thanks