The Omaha program began in 1982 under the direction of Mr. Joe Friend, Public Safety Director for the City of Omaha. This program was modeled after a Chaplain program in Johnson County, Kansas. The organizing members were Rev. Henry Gittler, Rev. Thomas Rollerson and Fr. Cannon.
Senior Chaplains
- Rev. Lonnie R. Dinneen 2012-present
- Rev. Dr. Damon Laaker 2007-2012
- Rev. Dr. F. Cole Fowler 2005-2007
- Rev. Dr. Damon Laaker 1996-2004
- Rev. Henry Gittler 1982-1996
Liaisons
- Deputy Chief Martin Crowley
- Captain Michael Pecha
- Lieutenant Barry DeJong
- Deputy Chief Barb Hauptman
- Sergeant Steve Cerveny
- Captain Michele Bang
- Deputy Chief Elizabeth Davis
- Sergeant Neal Bonacci (current)
- Deputy Chief Kerry Neumann (current)
Since the inception of the program, the Omaha Police Department has provided a marked vehicle and official credentialing that includes a chaplain identification badge. The approved uniform consists of a black clerical shirt with OPD shoulder patches and badge holder. A windbreaker style identification jacket is also provided. Various communication devices have been provided over the years.
Core Values
The Omaha program established four requirements that are still in effect today:
- Must be ordained clergy persons or vowed men and women in religious communities
- Must possess a college degree in addition to having theological training
- Must have served or be currently serving in a religious capacity
- Must adhere to the seal of confession
