Kristopher Johnston
Professional Standards Unit Lieutenant
Hillsville,VA
Summary
Accomplished Law Enforcement Leader experienced in decisive decision-making and staff development. Fostered teamwork and collaboration, resulting in enhanced safety measures and operational readiness within the operation of Western Virginia Regional Jail. Committed to leveraging time management and problem-solving skills to drive organizational growth and success.
Overview
7
7
Certifications
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Professional Standard Unit Lieutenant
Western Virginia Regional Jail
Salem, VA
04.2025 - Current
- Prepared and adjusted schedules to cover demand.
- Coordinated, scheduled and maintained team resources to achieve top levels of operational readiness.
- Implemented effective communication strategies among team members for improved operational efficiency.
- Participated in strategic planning sessions to enhance facility safety measures and policies.
- Oversaw proper implementation of best practices, policies and procedures in alignment with regulations and operational needs.
- Conducted thorough investigations into internal complaints and incidents, ensuring compliance with organizational policies.
- Analyzed evidence and gathered testimonies to support case resolutions, enhancing investigative accuracy.
- Prepared detailed reports documenting investigation outcomes and recommendations for management review, ensuring clarity and transparency.
- Collaborated with external law enforcement agencies to share intelligence and strengthen inter-agency relationships.
- Assisted in policy revision efforts to address identified gaps or areas requiring clarification within the organization's guidelines.
- Promoted an open-door policy for reporting concerns or complaints, fostering a culture that encourages accountability at all levels within the organization.
- Maintained strict confidentiality in handling sensitive information to protect the integrity of investigations.
Correctional Sergeant
Western Virginia Regional Jail
Salem, VA
11.2021 - 04.2025
- Supervised daily operations within facility, ensuring compliance with safety and security protocols.
- Conducted regular inspections of inmate housing areas to maintain security and order.
- Trained and mentored junior correctional officers on procedures and emergency responses.
- Developed and implemented strategies for conflict resolution among inmates, enhancing overall facility environment.
- Managed incident reports, documenting occurrences accurately for legal compliance and review processes.
- Participated in staff meetings to discuss operational improvements and enhance team communication strategies.
- Inspected housing cells and directed teams completing in-depth searches for contraband or damage.
- Supervised 25 employees and performance of tasks and managed 850 offenders.
- Served as a role model for subordinates, demonstrating professionalism in all aspects of job responsibilities.
- Conducted thorough investigations into allegations of misconduct or rule violations, resulting in fair disciplinary actions when necessary.
- Resolved issues and disputes between inmates professionally and respectfully.
- Completed daily work report sheets and delegated tasks to employees.
- Assisted in the planning and execution of large-scale facility operations including cell searches, shakedowns, and evacuation drills.
Safety and Compliance Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
Salem, VA
11.2019 - 11.2021
- Conducted regular compliance audits to ensure adherence to state and federal regulations.
- Developed and implemented training programs for staff on compliance policies and procedures.
- Maintained accurate records of compliance activities, inspections, and investigations.
- Led initiatives to enhance internal controls, reducing risk of non-compliance incidents.
- Assisted with internal and external audits to confirm compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Facilitated communication between departments, ensuring timely updates on compliance changes and their impact on operations.
- Conducted thorough risk assessments for identifying potential compliance vulnerabilities and formulated mitigation strategies.
- Developed and implemented corrective action plans for non-compliance issues.
- Assisted with development of compliance objectives and strategies.
- Maintained 100% compliance in all responsible areas during tenure, from November 2019 - November 2021. This included all inspections from American Correctional Association (ACA), Department of Corrections (DOC), Health, Life, and Safety Audit, and Roanoke County Fire Marshal Inspections.
Corrections Field Training Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
Salem, VA
09.2017 - 11.2019
- Facilitated training sessions for new correctional officers, enhancing operational readiness and compliance with regulations.
- Developed comprehensive training materials to support staff development and improve retention of critical information.
- Evaluated trainees' performance through assessments, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational standards.
- Mentored junior officers in crisis management techniques, fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability.
- Collaborated with management to update training programs based on emerging best practices and regulatory changes.
- Served as a positive role model for new officers, demonstrating professionalism, integrity, and commitment to public service at all times.
- Conducted regular assessments to gauge trainee competence in critical skills, adjusting training plans as needed to address gaps in knowledge or ability.
- Mentored new officers throughout their probationary period, offering guidance on best practices for successful career advancement within the department.
- Ensured proper documentation of all training activities to maintain compliance with department guidelines and accreditation standards.
- Maintained accurate records of each officer's progress throughout their training program, facilitating timely completion of required milestones for graduation from probationary status.
- Collaborated with fellow Field Training Officers to develop innovative teaching methods that resonated with diverse learning styles among trainees.
- Provided constructive feedback on department policies and procedures, contributing to ongoing improvement initiatives within the Field Training Officer program.
Corrections Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
Salem, VA
09.2014 - 09.2017
- Monitored inmate behavior to ensure safety and security within the facility.
- Implemented crisis intervention techniques to de-escalate potentially volatile situations.
- Conducted regular inspections of living areas for contraband and safety hazards.
- Assisted in training new officers on protocols and emergency procedures.
- Collaborated with mental health professionals to address inmate needs effectively.
- Reduced inmate altercations by maintaining consistent enforcement of rules and regulations.
- Supported successful emergency response efforts by participating in regular drills and training exercises.
- Prevented contraband introduction through diligent cell searches and visitor screenings.
- Maintained safety and security of staff and public by applying defensive techniques and physical restraints.
- Effectively interacted with staff, offenders, visitors, and public to maintain security within facility.
- Promoted a positive environment for rehabilitation with effective communication and conflict resolution skills.
- Developed a reputation for professionalism and integrity, serving as a role model for fellow officers in the performance of daily duties and adherence to ethical standards.
- Received and processed inmates into custody of institution by searching prisoners and taking charge of personal property.
- Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records, and activity journals.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
Education
High School Diploma -
Giles High School
Pearisburg, VA 05.2001 -
Skills
Operational strategy
Investigative techniques
Crisis management
Performance monitoring
Resource allocation
Staff training
Organizational skills
Detail orientation
Teamwork and collaboration
Relationship building
Accomplishments
- Successfully developed and mentored three officers who were promoted to Field Training Officer while serving as a Field Training Officer.
- Developed and mentored two officers who were promoted to Sergeant while serving as a Sergeant.
- Mentored and developed a Sergeant who was selected for promotion to Records Sergeant while serving as a Lieutenant.
- Demonstrated a consistent commitment to developing law enforcement professionals, preparing personnel for increased responsibility, and cultivating future leaders within the organization.
Certification
FBI LEEDA Command Leadership Institute
Timeline
Professional Standard Unit Lieutenant
Western Virginia Regional Jail
04.2025 - Current
Correctional Sergeant
Western Virginia Regional Jail
11.2021 - 04.2025
Safety and Compliance Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
11.2019 - 11.2021
Corrections Field Training Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
09.2017 - 11.2019
Corrections Officer
Western Virginia Regional Jail
09.2014 - 09.2017
High School Diploma -
Giles High School
05.2001 -