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National Law Enforcement Museum Overview

The National Law Enforcement Museum, spearheaded by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, aims to preserve the history of American law enforcement. The museum, which will span 55,000 square feet mostly underground, is set to be located adjacent to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC. This facility will provide high-tech, interactive exhibits and an immersive experience for visitors. Participants will have the opportunity to step into the shoes of law enforcers, making critical decisions faced in real-life situations along with learning crucial forensic techniques.

Construction and Design

After a ceremonial groundbreaking in 2010, construction officially began in February 2016, under the guidance of architect Davis Buckley. The design emphasizes a modern and unique architectural structure, complying with energy-efficient LEED standards. The museum is expected to open in mid-2018, offering a rich collection of historic artifacts alongside spaces dedicated to education and research.

Sample Artifacts

• From J. Edgar Hoover’s Estate – Includes over 2,000 items such as his office desk, chair, telephone, photographs, awards, and audio recordings of his speeches, encapsulating his personal and professional legacy during his directorship of the FBI.
• Women in Law Enforcement Timeline – An informative path tracing the evolution of women’s roles in law enforcement from the mid-19th century to today.
• Law Enforcement and Pop Culture – Features pop culture artifacts such as a Dragnet Toy Set and memorabilia from TV shows like Hawaii Five-O.
• The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – Contributing historic items, including Al Capone’s .38-caliber handgun and badges used by agents during critical enforcement periods like prohibition.
• The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) – Donating a motorcycle famously used by undercover ATF agents while infiltrating criminal organizations to aid in drug trafficking investigations.

Location

The museum is located at Judiciary Square, specifically in the 400 block of E Street, NW, Washington, DC, conveniently near the Judiciary Square Metro station.

About Davis Buckley Architects and Planners

Davis Buckley Architects and Planners specialize in designing innovative buildings with a blend of historical respect and modern functionality, including museums and commemorative sites. Notable projects in Washington DC include the Stephen Decatur House Museum and The Watergate Hotel. For further information, visit www.nleomf.org/museum.