Dayton, Ohio – The City of Dayton has announced a major leadership promotion within its police department, selecting a veteran law enforcement officer with more than three decades of experience to serve in one of the agency’s highest-ranking positions.
City Manager Shelley Dickstein revealed that Major Brian Johns has been promoted to Assistant Chief of the Dayton Police Department. The promotion will officially take effect on June 8, 2026.
Johns brings more than 34 years of law enforcement experience to the role, having spent much of his career serving in leadership positions involving patrol operations, criminal investigations, public safety initiatives, community engagement, and critical incident management.
Veteran Officer Takes On Expanded Leadership Role
At the time of his promotion, Johns was serving as Major of the East Patrol Division. In that position, he oversaw patrol operations and public safety efforts throughout downtown Dayton and the city’s east side.
His background also includes eight years leading the department’s Investigations and Administrative Services Division. During that assignment, he supervised homicide investigations, violent crime reduction initiatives, forensic services, crime analysis programs, and several specialized investigative units.
As Assistant Chief, Johns will assume responsibility for a broad range of departmental functions. His duties will include oversight of Patrol Operations, the Special Operations Bureau, the Traffic Services Unit, the Community Engagement Unit, recruiting efforts, and other operational support areas.
Police Chief Eric Henderson praised Johns’ long record of service and leadership.
“Major Johns has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to both this department and the Dayton community throughout his career,” said Chief Henderson. “His experience managing complex operations, building strong community partnerships, and his focus on crime victims make him well-suited for this role as we continue focusing on violent crime reduction, officer wellness, organizational development, and strengthening community trust.”
Extensive Experience And Professional Recognition
Throughout his career, Johns has earned a number of educational credentials and professional honors.
He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy as well as the Police Executive Leadership College. He also holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Criminal Justice from Siena Heights University.
His work has been recognized through several awards, including the DEA Administrator’s Award for Outstanding Group Achievement, the CareSource Heart of the Community Award, and the City of Dayton Joseph T. Cline Award for Excellence.
City officials said the promotion reflects confidence in Johns’ ability to help guide the department as it continues addressing public safety challenges while maintaining strong relationships with residents.
The city noted that additional organizational changes and command-level personnel assignments may be announced in the future. Officials also said the date for Johns’ formal promotional ceremony has not yet been finalized but will be announced at a later time.
With more than three decades of law enforcement experience and a lengthy history of leadership within the Dayton Police Department, Johns now steps into a role that will place him at the center of the agency’s efforts to enhance public safety, reduce violent crime, support officers, and strengthen community trust throughout Dayton.
