Chief John Lawton came to the Dallas ISD Police Department in March 2018 as an Assistant Chief of Police after a successful 23-year career with the Dallas Police Department. In August of 2019 Chief Lawton was promoted from the rank of Assistant Chief to Chief of Police for the Dallas ISD Police Department. While with Dallas PD, Lawton began his tenure serving in several capacities, notably as a patrol officer and canine handler. Once promoted to Sergeant, Lawton held numerous positions, where he supervised a sector in NE Patrol Division, oversaw the Safety Unit, led the Financial Crimes Unit, and headed the Basic Training Academy. Upon his promotion to Lieutenant, Lawton commanded the Police Academy. When Lawton achieved the rank of Major, he was assigned to the South Central and Central Patrol Divisions. After his promotion to Deputy Chief, Lawton served as the Central Patrol Division Commander. As Assistant Chief at Dallas PD, Lawton then commanded the Northwest Patrol Division.

Chief Lawton earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from the University of North Texas. He furthered his studies at Sam Houston State University, earning his Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice – Management and Leadership. Chief Lawton holds a Graduate Certificate in Police Management from the University of North Texas. A graduate of the 267th FBI National Academy and of the Police Executive Leadership Institute, Chief Lawton brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the vast Dallas ISD community.

Prior to his time with the Dallas Police Department, Chief Lawton proudly served in the United States Army and in the U.S. Army National Guard. Above all, Chief Lawton is a loving husband and father to four children.