Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon dies of COVID-19

DETROIT – Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon has died from COVID-19, officials say.

Napoleon was hospitalized late last month. It tested negative on November 13 and on November 17 experienced a rise in temperature. That’s when her primary care doctor performed a second test. He was then notified that he tested positive for the virus.

Since March, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office has lost a commander and two deputies to COVID-19.

Family and co-workers held a prayer vigil for Napoleon last month after putting him on a fan, a decision his family said he made to allow his body to heal.

“Thank you all for your prayers and for continuing to pray for the family,” said her daughter, Tiffani Jackson.

Wayne County Attorney Kym Worthy issued a statement:

“I can’t even begin to imagine a world without Benny. He was a beloved, iconic and respected police officer. It was progressive and it was old school. He was tough and had a golden heart. But most of all, he was a genuine, supportive, and faithful friend and colleague. I will miss him forever. “

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan issued a statement on Napoleon’s passing:

“I am shocked and saddened by the loss of one of the greatest officials and native children of our city, Benny Napoleon.

I can think of no leader of this people who has been more loved and admired than Benny. He was born in the city, bravely served our community all his adult life and loved Detroit as much as anyone I have ever met.

Please keep your daughter Tiffani, her family and friends and the entire Wayne County Sheriff’s Office in your prayers as they struggle with their painful loss.

Statement by Attorney Matthew Schneider, Eastern District of Michigan

“I’ve always enjoyed spending time with Benny. We worked together on law enforcement issues to protect families and neighborhoods in Wayne County. In those difficult times, Benny’s smile always brightened our days. “