On Tuesday, Matthew R. Johnson took the Oath of Office and became Spanish Fork City’s 45th Chief of Police.

It was last Friday that Steven G. Adams, the previous chief, signed off for the last time and retired. The two have worked together since their early days in law enforcement in Mapleton.

“I’m pleased to have Chief Johnson step into this role in our Police Department,” City Manager Seth Perrins said. “He is a proven leader in our department and is well-respected by his peers, the community, and our elected officials. Matt has developed himself personally and professionally throughout his career and will continue to elevate and lead our police department.”

Johnson’s career in law enforcement began in Mapleton City in 1995. After his stint with Mapleton and in the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, Johnson was hired by Spanish Fork City in September 1997 and served as a patrol and SWAT officer. In 2004, Johnson was transferred to the Investigations Division and served as a detective, school resource officer, vocational law enforcement instructor for high school students and was the department liaison with Nebo School District.

While assigned to the Investigations Division, Johnson was also a member of a task force investigating Internet Crimes against Children and received a letter of commendation from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for his involvement with the task force.

Chief Johnson was promoted to Sergeant in 2008 and served as the chairman of the Utah County Safety Task Force, administering funds for DUI and seatbelt enforcement throughout the county. In 2012, Johnson was promoted to Lieutenant and served as the administrative services commander and investigations lieutenant.

Johnson holds a Master’s of Public Administration from Brigham Young University and has been an adjunct professor for the University of Phoenix in their criminal justice program.

Adams previously served in the position for the last 11 years.

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