Bernard Kerik, the former Commissioner of the New York police department, who was widely known as a hero of 9/11 for his leadership during the incident died at 69. According to the reports, the disgraced ex-commissioner was suffering from an illness before his death. The news of his death came to light when FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed it on the 29th of May 2025 through social media. If you are someone who wants to know more about his life history and the reactions of people to Bernard Kerik’s death, the following article is for you.
Bernard Kerik’s Journey To The Rank Of Commissioner
Kerik was born in Newark, New Jersey, and was brought up in the city of Paterson. Bernard Kerik later dropped out of Eastside High School because of the troubles, which are well documented in the movie “Lean on Me.” According to what the reports suggest, Bernard Kerik then joined the military and started his career as a policeman who was stationed in South Korea. After leaving the military, Bernard Kerik also worked in private security in Saudi Arabia before he returned to the United States of America. Kerik was appointed as the supervisor at a New Jersey and then joined NYPD in the 1980s at the time New York was infamous for its long-troubled jail system. Kerik was then appointed as the police commissioner in 2000.
Bernard Kerik And His Role During The 9/11 Attack
Kerik was serving as the commissioner of NYPD when New York went under attack in 2001. In his book titled “From Jailer to Jailed,” he stated that he became “America’s top cop” after the 9/11 attacks. However, he also added that he would give anything for that day not to happen, but it did. He explained how he did everything he could under those circumstances. He was widely known as the hero of 9/11.
What Did Kash Patel Say About Bernard Kerik’s Death?
Kash Patel, who is currently serving as the Director of the FBI, took over his X account and confirmed the news of Bernard Kerik’s death. He described Kerik as a warrior, a patriot, and one of the most courageous public servants the US has ever known. Patel further added that he passed away from illness on the 29th of May 2025. He also appreciated Kerik’s leadership during one of the darkest chapters in the history of the country. Kerik was decorated for his service over 100 times, having rescued victims from burning buildings and surviving assassination bids along with bringing justice to several dangerous criminals.
Why Was Bernard Kerik Disgraced From His Position?
George W. Bush, the former President of the United States of America, nominated Bernard Kerik to a post in the Homeland Security Department. However, his nomination was later withdrawn from consideration as he admitted he had employed an illegal immigrant as a nanny in his house. Later in 2009, he pleaded guilty to a total of 8 federal felonies. These included evading taxes on a $255,000 gift for home repairs and making false statements to federal officials. He served a total of three years in prison and was later pardoned by Donald Trump in 2020.
Reactions And Tributes Pour In For Bernard Kerik
As the news of Bernard Kerik’s death was confirmed, tributes started pouring in for the fallen hero of NYPD. Mayor Rudy Giuliani explained how Kerik was like a brother to him, and it made him a better man, having known Bernard Kerik. He recalled Kerik as the bravest man he knew who didn’t only reduce crime when it was thought it couldn’t be reduced any further but also faced the deadliest attack on New York. Kash Patel also mentioned in his post on X how Kerik’s legacy is not limited to medals or titles but the lives he saved.
