Lawrenceville's Chief of Police L. 'Randy' Johnson has been honored by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police as this year's Outstanding Chief of the Year. For over 53 years, the GACP has worked to serve police chiefs and command staff law enforcement in efforts to promote efficient crime control, police legitimacy, and minimize crime-causing conditions in Georgia. The award was bestowed on July 28 during the GACP's training conference in Savannah.

Lawrenceville Mayor Judy Jordan Johnson said, "Chief Johnson is most deserving of this distinguished honor because he is dedicated to excellence within the Lawrenceville Police Department. Under his leadership, Lawrenceville experiences a much stronger, safer, and thriving local community."

Chief Johnson was nominated for his commitment to providing Lawrenceville with fair and impartial policing, compassion towards the community, and maintaining effective communication between the local community and the police department. Chief Johnson is known within the community for his dedication to the safety and well-being of Lawrenceville's citizens, as well as a commitment to assuring citizens are safe in their homes, vehicles, and places of business.

"As the police force, we are not just enforcers of law and order, rather, it is our duty to reduce crime in our community and create a productive environment for economic development to be established," said Chief Johnson. "As Police Chief, I am aware that an integrated community creates a conducive environment for police to tackle crime more effectively which ultimately leads to economic growth."

With over 30 years of experience in the Lawrenceville Police Department, Chief Johnson has served the last 19 years as the city's Chief. Earlier this year, he was also recognized at the VALOR Awards, a Public Service Awards Program hosted by the Gwinnett Chamber, where he received VALOR's Public Service and Leadership Award. Advanced training is a hallmark of Chief Johnson and his department, with members of his department continually encouraged to obtain advanced degrees, many of whom have a Master's degree or higher. Chief Johnson continues to serve the citizens of Lawrenceville and is a member of GACP.