Celebrating MPD’s Trailblazing Women

Last month, the Medford Police Department was honored to welcome back Kay Johnson, one of the earliest women to serve as a patrol officer in our city’s history. Kay joined MPD in the spring of 1963, during a pivotal time of change and progress for women in law enforcement.

While Kay's visit served as the inspiration for this story, we want to take a moment to recognize the true trailblazers who came before her:

• Hilde Prom Johnston became MPD’s first sworn female officer in 1960.

• Joan Arant followed shortly after in 1961, further solidifying the presence of women in our department.

• Then in 1963, Kay Johnson became the third female officer hired at MPD, continuing the path paved by Hilde and Joan.

Kay reached out to us after seeing KOBI’s recent story on the Rogue Girls Police Camp, a youth program designed to empower young women interested in law enforcement. She brought along memorabilia from her time at MPD—including her badge, a department photo, and several day logs from her time as a dispatcher. At the time she served, MPD operated out of the old City Hall basement, patrol officers often doubled as dispatchers, and women in squad cars were far from common. Kay wore the uniform and had full arrest authority, though she did not carry a firearm.

During her visit, MPD staff presented Kay with a collection of historic clippings and photos celebrating her role in department history. Kay reflected on her time here, sharing how deeply she cherished the camaraderie among officers and how meaningful it was to see how far women have come in public service careers. She spoke with admiration about the stamina, determination, and professionalism of today’s women in law enforcement and said she was proud to see women leading in fields once considered “men’s work.”

One of our current officers expressed gratitude for the foundation built by women like Kay, Hilde, and Joan—saying their service helped make it possible for today’s generation to serve and inspire the next through programs like the Rogue Girls Police Camp.

As we celebrate Kay’s visit, we also pay tribute to all three of MPD’s first sworn female officers—Hilde Prom Johnston, Joan Arant, and Kay Johnson—for breaking barriers, leading with courage, and making history. Their legacy continues to shape our department and our community for the better.