He carries a Bible, not a gun. His intent is not to arrest but to attest to a higher power.

The Rev. David Peoples has joined the Ironton Police Department as a volunteer chaplain.

Police Chief Jim Carey said he had wanted to have a chaplain on staff and had met Peoples at a domestic violence event at Ohio University Southern in October.

Impressed, he asked Peoples, the pastor of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, if he would be interested in the position.

Peoples said yes.

“My goal is to have his presence and his positive influence here,” Carey said. “It’s not necessarily to evangelize. He can ride along on patrols, visit the department when an officer is injured or ill. He can counsel if it’s desired.”

Peoples said he was surprised by the invitation but considered it an honor and hopes he can be of service to the police department and the community.

“I hope to have the opportunity that officers can share with me and me with them,” Peoples said. “I hope to be a sounding board and give spiritual advice, direction in dealing with life’s issues.”

Peoples was introduced to some members of the police department staff at a meeting earlier this month.