ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Trading his badge in for a Bible, a former sheriff's deputy who’s used to putting people in jail, is now working to try to get them out in a unique way.
For more than 30 years, Ronnie Lester was locking up the bad guys but now he's working closer with the inmates to help them get out.
"I want people to realize inmates are not all bad," said Lester, a chaplain at the St. Johns County jail. "They've made mistakes. Let them pay for the crime and let them have a second chance in society."
At 66 years old, Ronnie Lester says he's been through a lot.
"My story is at 16 years old I ran away from home," Lester said. "I slept on the streets. At 17, when I participated in a car burglary or two, had I gotten caught, I would've been here."
Lester admits he isn't perfect. He dropped out of high school and went into the Army during the Vietnam War. got into some trouble, even had an affair early in his marriage. He started working in law enforcement as a state corrections officer moving on to deputy patrol for St. Johns County Sheriff's Office and teaching at the police academy. He says during his darkest times in the Army, he turned to God.
"Now I've just got a different perspective and realize I can make a difference of people," Lester said. "I don't want to help people get out, I want to help people stay out!"
He turned in his badge for a Bible, serving as the Jail Chaplain at the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office. His experience has created a unique connection between him and criminals.
"They'll talk with me about personal things," Lester said.
Every month, he meets with and mentors dozens of inmates. He says it's not about pushing religion on anyone but fostering faith and hope.
"He brings a positive light," said Lt. Larry Durden of the St. Johns County Sheriff's office. "People, when they come in, they come in on their worst day. We have people like Ronnie here that will talk to them, find out what's in their heart and why they're going through these tough times and that's very meaningful for that individual.
"I have seen people's story change and then end up being a productive citizen once they're released form jail."
Lester believes that even if he doesn't reach every inmate, he's still making a difference.
"If we keep one percent out, we have done a great job and I think we're keeping more than that out," Lester said.
For about two years, Lester has been changing lives as the jail chaplain. Despite a cancer diagnosis, he says this is his calling and he will continue to do what he loves.