Chaplain Dr. Jeff Barnes receives a thank you from Clermont Police Chief Charles Broadway

Chaplain Dr. Jeff Barnes Retires

Chaplain Dr. Jeff Barnes is retiring from the Clermont Police Department after 10 years of excellent service. Dr. Barnes joined the chaplaincy program in 2012. In the past 10 years, he has helped staff and families within the community who have experienced a tragedy or a traumatic event.  He has made hospital visits, and responded to crime scenes and fatal traffic crashes. He has made death notifications, has helped numerous people in crisis, and counseled those to overcome trials and challenges in their lives.  

Clermont Police Chief Charles Broadway cites, “Chaplain Dr. Jeff Barnes has unitized his extensive training for the betterment of others; but more importantly, he has shown care, compassion, dedication, selflessness, empathy and kindness.  He is a leader, a friend and one who I know exemplifies what the Bible says is the greatest commandment- to paraphrase is “To Love God and Love People”.

(L-R) Chaplain Victor Lopez is sworn in by Clermont Police Chief Charles Broadway

Chaplain Victor Lopez is sworn in

Victor Lopez, a retired 20-year veteran of the New York City Police Department (NYPD), will take on the role as chaplain for the Clermont Police Department.  

Lopez moved his family to Clermont in June of 2014 after his retirement.  He returned to school and earned his Bachelor of Science in Biblical and Education Studies and his Master of Arts in Biblical Exposition in May of 2022.

He is presently teaching 4th grade and is actively involved in his church teaching and preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

He has been married to his beautiful wife Diane for 32 years and they are raising three wonderful children, twin boys James and Jeffrey and a daughter Emily Rose Lopez.