Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has announced the appointment of Lee Johnson as the new administrator for the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). Johnson, a veteran with over three decades of experience at DCI, previously served as the bureau chief of the division’s Investigations Bureau.
“I’m confident Lee has the knowledge and experience required to lead the Division of Criminal Investigation in its mission to serve and protect Montanans,” said Attorney General Knudsen. “It’s a challenging job, as DCI is at the forefront of our battles against dangerous drugs and human trafficking and investigates the state’s most complex crimes. I know Lee is up to the challenge, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.”
Johnson began his career with DCI in 1993 as a major crimes investigator, taking on complex cases across Montana. In 2012, he was promoted to supervisor for the Investigation Bureau’s Major Case Section, overseeing investigations into homicides, violent crimes, and other high-profile cases.
In 2020, Johnson became bureau chief, managing multiple units, including the Major Case Section, Fire Prevention and Investigation Section, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Social Security Fraud Task Force, Office of Consumer Protection, and the newly established Elder Justice Unit.
“I am honored and humbled to be selected by Attorney General Knudsen to lead DCI into the future,” Johnson said. “As the Department of Justice combats crime daily, our talented team at DCI will continue to stand ready to serve and protect the public around the clock.”
A Butte native, Johnson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in criminal justice from Montana State University. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, a program that provides advanced training to law enforcement leaders worldwide.
Johnson steps into the role following the retirement of Bryan Lockerby earlier this month. Lockerby’s tenure marked significant progress in addressing drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other major criminal threats in Montana.
As the new DCI administrator, Johnson will lead the division’s efforts to combat rising drug-related crimes, human trafficking, and other complex criminal activities. Under his leadership, the division is expected to continue its critical role in investigating and prosecuting Montana’s most serious cases.
Attorney General Knudsen emphasized the importance of DCI’s work in keeping Montana communities safe. “DCI plays a vital role in ensuring that criminals are held accountable and that Montanans can live free from fear,” he said.
With Johnson’s extensive experience and commitment to public safety, the division is poised to continue its mission to protect and serve the people of Montana.
By: DNU staff