Cpl. William Johnson is one of the longest-serving police officers at the University of Maryland, Baltimore Police Department (UMBPD) — he's been with the department for 23 years and 8 months. 

“I became an officer to protect and serve innocent people from unwanted crimes,” Johnson says.

In his many years with the department, Johnson has gotten to know a lot of UMB community members. “Always make good decisions, pay attention to your surroundings, listen and take good notes, and always be safe!” he recommends. 

Johnson's achievements with the department include saving a person’s life after they stopped breathing. He administered CPR until medical personnel arrived. In another instance, Johnson stopped and arrested a robbery suspect who had a gun. His favorite part of the job, though, is helping people and interacting with the public.

“I'm outgoing, funny, and willing to try anything once," he says. “I'm very easy to get along with." 

When Johnson became an officer-in-charge, he faced new challenges with running a shift and learning to be a good leader. He leans on his colleagues and UMBPD leadership to continue to learn and grow.

In the future, Johnson looks forward to retiring (“with great health and strength!”) and moving to an island. Outside of work, he enjoys exercising, fishing, bowling, swimming, playing pool, shopping, eating at restaurants, gaming, and riding motorcycles.