“Service begins with heart, and no heart should carry the weight of service alone.”

Pastoral Advisory Board: Spiritual and Emotional Strength for Every Member of the Sheriff’s Office

In law enforcement, officers and staff face unimaginable pressure on the streets, in the jail, and in their personal lives. To support them fully, we must acknowledge that wellness extends beyond the physical and mental, it includes the spiritual.

As Sheriff, I will build upon the current Chaplaincy program and form a Pastoral Advisory Board for all employees of the Sheriff’s Office and Detention Center. This board will be more than symbolic, it will be active and deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

Community-Based Chaplaincy: Rooted in the Neighborhoods We Protect

We will expand the number of trained Volunteer Chaplains working with the Sheriff’s Office and strategically identify pastors and ministers who live and serve within our communities, especially those aligned with the COPS (Community Oriented Policing Services) Unit districts.

These chaplains will:

• Be easily accessible to deputies, staff, and community members.
• Be trained in crisis response and available during critical incidents, such as officer-involved shootings or traumatic events.
• Serve as first-line emotional and spiritual support for deputies and the public alike.
• Provide a community bridge during tense or high-impact events, helping restore calm and trust.

1. Faith-Based Representation

Spartanburg County is a county of many backgrounds, beliefs, and denominations. Our chaplain program must reflect that diversity.

• We will invite pastors and faith leaders from a wide range of denominations and traditions to participate, ensuring every employee has access to someone who understands and respects their personal beliefs.
• These chaplains will respect all employees’ choices and beliefs, offering support without pressure, just presence, guidance, and care.
• Chaplains will be integrated into employee wellness programs, reinforcing our overall commitment to mental health, emotional support, and a resilient workplace.

Why It Matters

Chaplains are not just there in times of tragedy. They are a constant presence, offering peace of mind, encouragement, and someone to talk to even in the quiet moments.

• For officers struggling with trauma, grief, or burnout, chaplains are often the first step toward healing.
• For families of officers, knowing a chaplain is available brings comfort and reassurance.
• For the public, a strong chaplain presence reinforces transparency, empathy, and trust—especially during crises.

Restoring the Heart of Law Enforcement

As Sheriff, I see spiritual wellness as an essential pillar in building a stronger department culture. By empowering chaplains to serve openly and effectively across all divisions, we reinforce the values of compassion, service, and integrity.

A badge may protect a deputy’s chest, but a chaplain helps protect their heart.

My Commitment

• Build a countywide Chaplaincy Team integrated with our COPS Unit structure.
• Form a Pastoral Advisory Board representing diverse faith leaders from across Spartanburg County.
• Ensure chaplains are trained, respected, and empowered to serve our team and community.
• Make chaplaincy a core part of our health and wellness program, not an afterthought.