Bernard Kerik Dies: 9/11 NYPD Chief Was 69
- Bernard Kerik, who led the New York City Police Department during the Sept.
- Kerik's career involved a prominent role in law enforcement, including his oversight of the police response to the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S.
- In 2009, Kerik pleaded guilty to tax fraud and served three years in prison.
Bernard Kerik, the former NYC police commissioner who directed the NYPD’s 9/11 response, has died at 69. His death, confirmed by Kash Patel, closes a chapter on a prominent figure whose leadership role was marked by both heroism and controversy. kerik, a decorated law enforcement officer and Army veteran, oversaw the police efforts following the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil. He later served time for tax fraud, after which President Trump pardoned him. News Directory 3 brings you this breaking news and the reactions of notable public figures, including rudy Giuliani and mayor Eric Adams, who knew Kerik for decades. Discover what’s next as discussions of his legacy unfold.
Bernard Kerik, NYC Police Commissioner During 9/11, Dies at 69
Bernard Kerik, who led the New York City Police Department during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, died Thursday at age 69. Kash Patel, former FBI director, confirmed Kerik’s death, citing a private illness.
Kerik’s career involved a prominent role in law enforcement, including his oversight of the police response to the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.He later headed a provisional police force in Iraq, appointed by then-President George W. Bush. His police role was nearly elevated to head of Homeland Security in 2004, but he withdrew his name from consideration.
In 2009, Kerik pleaded guilty to tax fraud and served three years in prison. President Donald Trump pardoned him in 2020. The former commissioner’s leadership role was often marked by controversy.
Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who worked with Kerik during his time as commissioner, expressed his condolences. “We’ve been together since the beginning. He’s like my brother,” Giuliani said. “I was a better man for having known Bernie.I certainly was a braver and stronger man.”
Mayor Eric Adams, a friend of Kerik’s for nearly 30 years, visited him in the hospital before his death. “He was with his loved ones who are in my prayers tonight,” Adams said in a statement.”He was a great New Yorker and American.”
Kerik’s career included service as an Army veteran and a decorated law enforcement officer. Later, he joined Giuliani’s efforts to challenge Trump’s 2020 election loss.
What’s next
Following Kerik’s death, discussions about his legacy and impact on law enforcement are expected to continue.