Biography

Ray Johnson is a fellow with the Center for Crime and Justice Policy at UNLV and an adjunct professor with the university's William S. Boyd School of Law. A retired Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) executive, Johnson served as assistant special agent in charge of the Las Vegas division from 2018 to 2024, directing operations, crisis response, and wellness programs for law enforcement personnel. Today, he focuses on improving the mental health and resilience of first responders through practical, evidence-based strategies that reduce stigma and strengthen organizational culture.

At UNLV, Johnson teaches courses on "crimmigration" — which touch on factors at the intersection of criminal law and immigration law — as well as ethical decision-making and real-time policing, helping prepare future professionals to lead with integrity and emotional readiness. He also advises public agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations on wellness program design, accountability, and leadership development through his consulting work.

Johnson is a licensed attorney and contracted author with SAGE Publishing, where he develops books on law, criminal justice, and leadership. His work focuses on improving resilience and wellness in high-stress professions, applying lessons from his years in federal law enforcement and organizational leadership.

A frequent speaker on policing culture, ethics, and professional accountability, Johnson also leads a multimedia series on professional judgment and human performance, and spearheads national “Mingle” initiatives that bring first responders, veterans, and community members together to build connection and open conversation about stress and purpose.