Karla E. Johnson

Chief

Hello everyone, I am Deputy Chief Karla E. Johnson. Born and raised on the far South Side of Chicago, I am a proud CPS alum and a first-generation Police Officer. I have proudly served the Chicago Police Department for 24 years and currently serve as the Deputy Chief of the Training and Support Group. In this role, I oversee recruit, in-service, supervisory, and specialized training programs while leading department-wide training strategies, curriculum development, firearms instruction, and continuing education. Prior to this assignment, I served as Commander of the 005th District, where violent crime decreased during my tenure. I also served in the Office of Community Policing, focusing on youth engagement and community problem solving. As a Lieutenant, I worked in the Crime Prevention and Information Center and the Office of the Superintendent. As a Sergeant, I was assigned to the 003rd District and the Human Resources Division, where I assisted candidates through the hiring process. In addition, I served as an Evidence Technician within the Bureau of Detectives, processing crime scenes. I earned my MBA from Saint Xavier University and my BA in Psychology from the University of Illinois Chicago. I am also a graduate of the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety School of Police Staff and Command and recently completed the University of Chicago Policing Leadership Academy. Mentorship has always been important to me. My team and I are here to help to answer the call to service.