(WWJ) Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon has died after a weeks-long battle with COVID-19.
Napoleon, 65, went into the hospital November 20, a day after he confirmed that he had the coronavirus.
Family members said Napoleon was placed on a ventilator several days later, to assist him with slowing his breathing, although they remained hopeful he would make a full recovery.
Condolences began pouring in after Napoleon passed away Thursday evening.
“I cannot even begin to imagine a world without Benny in it. He was a beloved, iconic, and respected law enforcement official," said Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. "He was progressive and he was old school. He was tough and he had a heart of gold. But most of all, he was a genuine, caring, and loyal friend and colleague. I will miss him forever.”
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said he was shocked and saddened at the loss of a man he called one the city’s greatest public servants and native sons.
"I cannot think of a leader in this town who has been more loved and admired than Benny," Duggan said. "He was born in the city, served our community courageously his entire adult life, and loved Detroit as much as anyone I’ve ever known."
"Please keep his daughter Tiffani, his family and friends, and the entire Wayne County sheriffs office in your prayers as they struggle with their painful loss."
Napoleon was first elected Wayne County Sheriff in 2009.
Previously, he served as Detroit Police Chief between 1998 and 2001, after more than two decades with the department. He became Assistant Wayne County Executive in 2004.
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