07/01/2025
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SBSO CHAPLAIN AARON JOHNSON: A Steady Presence in Times of Need
In the often high-stress world of law enforcement, having someone who offers spiritual guidance and empathy can make all the difference. For the men and women of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, that someone is Chaplain Aaron Johnson — sworn deputy, peer supporter, and trusted colleague.
Chaplain Johnson serves in a unique dual role: as full-time deputy and the department’s official chaplain. In this capacity, he provides emotional and spiritual support not only to fellow deputies but also to the public, serving as a calm and compassionate presence during some of life’s most difficult moments.
Sheriff James Pohlmann said Chaplain Johnson is a reliable source of strength for the department.
“Whether he’s offering support to a fellow deputy, comforting a grieving family on a scene, or offering a prayer at a community event, he is a calm source of guidance and spiritual connection,” the Sheriff said. “His approachable nature makes him especially effective in this role.”
Chaplain Johnson, along with a group of fellow deputies, went through peer support training to offer confidential assistance to deputies navigating job-related stress or personal challenges. He also works closely with the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #64, helping to organize wellness initiatives and family-centered events that promote officer well-being.
At the same time, Chaplain Johnson plays a critical role in the broader community.
He responds to scenes where tragedy has struck — including fatal accidents, suicide-related calls, and death notifications — providing compassion, comfort, and support to those affected.
As part of the Special Operations Division’s Community Relations team, Chaplain Johnson regularly visits local schools to speak and read to children. He also helps facilitate the department’s annual Junior Deputy Academy - a summer program for children ages 10–12 that educates participants on various aspects of law enforcement while instilling community pride.
Additionally, the Chaplain serves on the board of C.O.P.S. for Christmas, an annual program that brings toys, food, and essential items to local families in need.
Originally from Indianapolis, Indiana, Chaplain Johnson and his wife, Shauna, first came to the area as volunteers helping St. Bernard residents gut homes and rebuild their lives following Hurricane Katrina. Moved by the resilience of the parish’s people, they soon after made Chalmette their home, where they now live with their two children.
Chaplain Johnson spent four years as a volunteer Reserve Division deputy from 2012-16 before graduating from the Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) police academy in 2018.
Most recently, he earned his master’s degree in Public Administration from Upper Iowa University — a milestone that reflects both his commitment to personal growth and his desire to better serve SBSO and the community we protect.
As he celebrates seven years with the Sheriff’s Office this week, Chaplain Johnson continues to serve with integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to the people of St. Bernard — both in and out of uniform.
Through every prayer, every conversation, and every moment spent walking beside those in need, he reminds us that wearing the badge is not always just about enforcing laws — it's also about serving people.
