Reinstated and Returned to His School
By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.
Dr. Karlton O. Johnson, principal of Cypress Run Education Center in Broward County, is no longer facing charges of impersonating a law enforcement officer after prosecutors determined there was insufficient evidence to support the case.
According to a memorandum from the State Attorney’s Office, there was no proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Johnson committed a crime during a January 7 traffic stop. The incident occurred when Johnson was pulled over for an altered license plate and displayed an honorary deputy badge given to him in 2017 by former Broward Sheriff Scott Israel.
During the stop, Johnson allegedly told the trooper, “I’m one of you. I’m one of you,” and identified himself as a reserve officer—a claim later found to be untrue. However, prosecutors concluded that Johnson did not misuse the badge or attempt to exercise law enforcement authority, such as making an arrest or directing an officer.
Following the dismissal of the charges, Johnson expressed gratitude, saying, “I am happy for this opportunity and happy to move on with my life. I am thankful to my family, friends, and the community here in South Florida”. A veteran educator with 35 years of experience, Johnson was named Principal of the Year in 2016 while at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach.
His attorney, Johnny L. McCray Jr., emphasized that Johnson had no criminal intent. “Justice prevailed. The memo makes it clear—there was no crime. Dr. Johnson never tried to make an arrest or shake anyone down,” McCray said. He added that Johnson openly stated he was not a sworn deputy and that the badge was clearly marked “Honorary.” McCray argued that Johnson was simply trying to avoid a traffic ticket, a practice many professionals including ministers, doctors, and lawyers—have attempted in similar situations.
Following his arrest, the Broward County School District reassigned Johnson pending the investigation. Two days after the charges were dismissed, he was reinstated as principal at Cypress Run.
