06/15/2026
Three Leesburg Police Officers Graduate from NVCJA Session 154
Leesburg, VA (June 15, 2026) – The Leesburg Police Department is proud to announce the graduation of Officers Joshua Cella, David Coullahan, and Dalton Schmidt from the Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Training Academy (NVCJA) Session 154. The graduation ceremony was held this morning at Christian Fellowship Church in Ashburn, Virginia.
Over the course of the academy, the officers completed an intensive training program that included instruction in Virginia criminal and traffic law, fi****ms proficiency, defensive tactics, emergency vehicle operations, criminal investigations, crisis intervention, ethics, and community-oriented policing. The program is designed to prepare recruits for the challenges and responsibilities of modern law enforcement while emphasizing professionalism, accountability, and service to the community.
In addition to graduating from the academy, two Leesburg officers were recognized for outstanding achievement. Officer Dalton Schmidt earned Second Place in the Excellence in Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) Award, recognizing exceptional performance in emergency vehicle driving and operational skills. Officer David Coullahan received Second Place in the Director’s Award for Academic Excellence, recognizing his outstanding academic achievement throughout the academy.
“The graduation of Officers Cella, Coullahan, and Schmidt marks the beginning of an important chapter in their law enforcement careers,” said Chief Thea Pirnat. “These officers have demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to serving others throughout their training. As they join the ranks of the Leesburg Police Department, they will continue the long tradition of service to our community, helping to protect, support, and build trust with the residents and businesses we are honored to serve.”
The graduates now begin their field training program, where they will work alongside experienced officers and apply the skills and knowledge gained at the academy as they serve the Leesburg community.
Other participating agencies represented in NVCJA Session 154 included the City of Alexandria Police Department, City of Alexandria Sheriff's Office, Arlington County Police Department, City of Fairfax Police Department, Falls Church Police Department, George Mason University Police Department, Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police Department.
The Leesburg Police Department is currently hiring certified and entry-level police officers. Individuals interested in a rewarding career dedicated to public service are encouraged to visit BeLPD.com to learn more about employment opportunities.