Jay Johnston (born October 22, 1968) is an American actor and comedian best known for his work as a writer and cast member on the HBO sketch comedy series Mr. Show and for playing the role of Officer Jay McPherson on The Sarah Silverman Program.On October 28, 2024, Johnston, who was arrested in 2023 for his participation in the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack, pled guilty to a felony offense of obstructing officers during a civil disorder in July. As a result, Johnston has been sentenced to 12 months and a day in federal prison.