Lansing, MI - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson have issued statements following the death of Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon, who passed away Thursday, December 17, 2020 after a battle with COVID-19.
Michigan Attorney General Nessel:
"I am heartbroken to learn of the passing of my friend and colleague Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon. I have long admired his work at the department and was honored to have an opportunity to partner with him as a colleague. Benny was beloved by so many in the Wayne County community and around the state. We enjoyed a close relationship since the time I took office, including working feverishly together last spring to bring much-needed PPE to his department to protect his deputies, who he cared so deeply for. I could always count on Benny for his support, his input and his cooperation. He was a wonderful man and his passing is a loss not only for his family but also for his many friends and co-workers. Benny had so much life yet to live; our community has once again lost someone larger than life to this vicious pandemic. My heart goes out to Benny’s family. It was an honor and a privilege to call him my sheriff."
Michigan Secretary of State Benson:
"I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Sheriff Napoleon, and to learn we've lost yet another giant of the Detroit community to coronavirus. While we mourn his passing, I am grateful for his grace, kindness and steadfast commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of Wayne County and Detroit. As his family, like far too many across the state and nation, grieve the passing of a dear loved one this season, we are again reminded of the importance of staying home, staying safe, and wearing a mask."