BREAKING: Bernie Kerik, former NYPD Commissioner known as ‘America’s Cop’ after 9/11, has died

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From the New York Post: Ex-NYPD Commissioner Bernard Kerik, who was known as “America’s Cop” and led the city’s police department through the 9/11 terror attacks, died Thursday after he was hospitalized with cardiac disease.

He was 69 and surrounded by family and friends at the time of his death at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

Kerik, whose high-profile career was peppered with success and controversy, shot to prominence when he was named the Big Apple’s top cop by former Mayor Rudy Giuliani in 2000 and presided over a 63% drop in violent crime.

Kerik, whose law enforcement career spanned four decades and involved national security work, helmed the department during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, overseeing response, rescue, recovery and investigative efforts.

He was praised for deploying cops during the department’s efforts after the attack on the Twin Towers, earning him the nickname “America’s Cop.”

FBI Director Kash Patel announced Thursday evening:

Today, we mourn the loss of Bernard B. Kerik, a warrior, a patriot, and one of the most courageous public servants this country has ever known. Bernie passed away tragically on May 29, 2025, after a private battle with illness.

With over forty years of service in law enforcement and national security, he dedicated his life to protecting the American people. As the 40th Police Commissioner of New York City, Bernie led with strength and resolve in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks, guiding the NYPD through one of the darkest chapters in our nation’s history.

He was decorated more than 100 times for bravery, valor, and service, having rescued victims from burning buildings, survived assassination attempts, and brought some of the world’s most dangerous criminals to justice. His legacy is not just in the medals or the titles, but in the lives he saved, the city he helped rebuild, and the country he served with honor.

Rest easy, Commissioner. Your watch has ended, but your impact will never fade.

End of Watch – May 29, 2025

The NYPD paid tribute to Kerik, writing in a post on X, “The NYPD is mourning the passing of former Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik. For nearly two decades, Kerik served and protected New Yorkers in the NYPD, including helping rebuild the city in the aftermath of 9/11. We offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani wrote, “I am heartbroken over the loss of my dear friend Bernie Kerik. He was a decorated police officer, Corrections commissioner and NYC police commissioner during the worst terrorist attack on American soil. Bernie oversaw the biggest evacuation of a city during this time. His work in security has benefited many communities. My sympathies to his wife Hala, his son Joe and his two daughters Celine and Angelina , whom are my goddaughters.”

DMLNewsApp and TeamDML.com founder Dennis Michael Lynch wrote, “My heart goes out to the family of my friend Bernie Kerick, former top cop in NYC and staunch Trump supporter. Bernie was a man’s man and always a call away. He was a constant figure on my TV show and podcast. I will miss him.”

Attorney Dan Newlin wrote:

Tonight, we mourn the tragic loss of my dear friend, Bernie Kerik. As the former Police Commissioner of New York City, he faced one of the darkest days in American history—September 11, 2001—with unwavering strength and leadership.

I am truly honored to have spent the last days with him and his family. Bernie was not only a steadfast ally but also one of the greatest mentors in my life. Together, we traveled the country, rallying support for President Donald J. Trump. I will forever cherish the love and friendship we shared.

Thank you, Bernie, for everything. Your legacy and impact on so many lives will never be forgotten. May God rest your soul.

Here’s a memory of us together, front row at Madison Square Garden, cheering on a cause we both believed in. You will be greatly missed, my great and dear friend.

Richard Grenell, President Trump’s special presidential envoy for special missions, shared a photo and wrote, “I spent election night with @BernardKerik. He was always in the bunker with me. Always. He will forever be an American hero. RIP, my friend. Miss you already.”

From Kari Lake:

I’m heartbroken to learn that Bernard Kerik passed away today at the young age of 69. Bernie was a true patriot for decades! Just like President Trump, he had a YUGE love for America, his family, and New York City. He LOVED the MAGA Movement BEFORE it even had a name.

I last saw Bernie late-February in Washington DC— we had dinner together and his daughter popped in to say hello and he was SO proud of her. It made my heart beam.❤️

I looked back tonight at all of the funny text messages we used to send to each other —usually celebrating victories for MAGA & President Trump. This one was an exchange we had that night in February. Rest in peace, Bernie. You are missed. Watch over us. 🙏🇺🇸

And the tributes keep pouring in….

READ MORE from the New York Post.

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