“We are fortunate to have Kim Johnson come out of retirement to step into this important leadership role with the East Lansing Police Department,” Lahanas said. “During his three decades with the department, he proved to be a respected, dedicated leader with a high level of professionalism."

Johnson will be replacing Interim Chief Steve Gonzalez, who took the position after former ELPD Chief Larry Sparkes retired abruptly only a week after Michigan State Police took over an investigation involving excessive force allegations that arose following a December 2019 arrest. 

Gonzalez has worked with ELPD for 22 years in various positions and will return to his role as deputy chief of the department, the release said.

“We want to thank Deputy Chief Gonzalez for stepping in as interim chief during this transitional period,” Lahanas said in the release. “Over his years with ELPD, he has continued to step up where he is needed, and he always serves with the utmost professionalism and dedication.” 

Johnson had previously served with ELPD from 1982-2012, according to the release. He was initally hired as an officer, then later moved up through the ranks to become captain of the department in 2006 until his retirement over a 30-year career. In his role as captain, he also served as the public information officer and emergency management coordinator for the department. 

Johnson has worked as an adjunct faculty member at Northwestern University’s Center for Public Safety and received a bachelor's in criminal justice and a master's degree from Michigan State University. 

“It is an honor and a privilege to return to ELPD and lead the fine men and women in the department to an exciting future, while also serving our great community and enhancing community collaboration efforts with all stakeholders,” Johnson said in the release. 

Johnson will be taking on his new role with ELPD beginning Monday, Oct. 5.