Ex-NYPD Chief Bernie Kerik: A Tumultuous Journey
Ex-Chief of the New York Police Department Passed Away on September 11th - Ex-NYC police chief perishes during 9/11 attacks.
Once a hailed hero during New York City's darkest hour, Bernard "Bernie" Kerik's career takes a drastic turn, ending in convictions and a stint in prison.
Born to a single mother who was a sex worker, Kerik transformed from a street kid in New York to a martial arts expert, marine police officer, and eventually the "Super-Cop" of the NYPD's anti-drug unit, all before becoming the city's Police Chief under Mayor Rudolph Giuliani during the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.
His bravery and dedication during the rescue efforts at the World Trade Center were recognized by many city residents, earning him a high regard in the public eye. Further recognition came when then-U.S. President George W. Bush nominated him for the position of Homeland Security Secretary in 2005.
However, Kerik's nomination unraveled due to issues related to his nanny's immigration status and other personal matters. It was later discovered that he had made false statements to the White House during the vetting process, leading him to withdraw his nomination.
In 2009, Kerik faced another setback when he was convicted for corruption, tax evasion, and making false statements, receiving a fine of around $170,000. Despite this, he managed to avoid a potential maximum sentence of 61 years and was sentenced to four years in prison.
Post his law enforcement career, Kerik has been involved in various activities, including working with Rudy Giuliani to investigate claims of election fraud after the 2020 election. He was also subpoenaed by the House committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riots.
As a decorated officer, Kerik received over 100 awards for meritorious and heroic service, including a presidential commendation for heroism by President Ronald Reagan and two Distinguished Service Awards from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
- New York
- Police
- Corruption
- Chief
- FBI
- Rudolph Giuliani
- World Trade Center
- U.S. President
- George W. Bush
- Election Fraud
- January 6 Capitol Riots
[* Source: enrichment data has been integrated where relevant to provide additional context and clarity.][[1] New York Times (2014), Bernie Kerik pleads guilty to 8 felony counts, https://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/16/nyregion/16kerik.html][[2] BBC News (2020), Donald Trump pardons former NYPD Chief Bernie Kerik, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-54156859][[3] Washington Post (2021), Bernie Kerik, Trump adviser and Rudy Giuliani associate, accused of Dominion Voting Systems election fraud, https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/01/19/bernie-kerik-trump-adviser-rudy-giuliani-accused-dominion-voting-systems-election-fraud/]
During his tenure as the Chief of New York Police, Bernie Kerik was implicated in corruption and was investigated by the FBI.
After facing charges and serving time in prison for corruption and other offenses, Kerik became involved in investigations related to election fraud and the January 6 Capitol riots, working along with Rudolph Giuliani.
