- April 19, 2024
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The city of Ormond Beach has announced the selection of Robert “Jesse” Godfrey as the next chief of police. Chief Godfrey was one of 90 applicants for the position and rose to the top after an extensive selection process utilizing the Florida Police Chiefs Association STARS recruiting program as well as input from local community leaders, according to city spokeswoman.
A search was conducted after Chief Henry Osterkamp announced his retirement. His last day was March 31.
Godfrey has 28 years of law enforcement experience. In July 1988, he began his career with the Ormond Beach Police Department as an officer and stayed until October 1989.
After 21 years with the Daytona Beach Police Dept., Godfrey returned to the Ormond Beach Police Department in 2011 as a lieutenant and rose through the ranks to become captain in October 2014.
Godfrey has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Central Florida. He has graduated from the U.S. Department of Justice National FBI Academy, as well as the 47th Southern Police Institute Command Officers Program. Additionally, Godfrey has successfully completed numerous other professional development training and certification programs, the spokeswoman said.
City Manager Joyce Shanahan said Godfrey has the respect of the men and women of the Ormond Beach Police Department and the community.
“He is a strong advocate of community policing and D.A.R.E Programs,” she said in a press release. “His intimate knowledge of the department will be invaluable as we adopt innovative approaches and employ 21st century technology to meet the city’s future public safety needs.”
Mayor Ed Kelley will administer the oath of office to Godfrey on April 19. A reception will be held 6:30-7 p.m. in the City Hall atrium after the oath for Godfrey, and the public is invited to attend.
Godfrey is married with two children. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, and he is an avid cyclist, the spokeswoman said.
After a candidate is hired, the STARS Program remains engaged to provide training and mentoring to ensure a seamless transition for a new Police Chief, according to a press release.
