Putnam County Sheriff Kevin McConville Has Died And A Community Mourns

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Sheriff Kevin McConville died this morning at his Putnam County home. The community is mourning the lifelong resident.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of Sheriff Kevin McConville who passed away earlier this morning at his home with his loving family by his side," the sheriff's department said in a statement released this morning. "Arrangements will be forthcoming, at this time we ask you keep the Sheriff and his family in your thoughts and prayers."

Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne has ordered all county buildings to display flags at half-staff in remembrance of McConville.

"Kevin dedicated his life to public service, most recently as one of Putnam County's top law enforcement officials," Byrne said in a statement. "He served with integrity, courage, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to the community he loved."

Byrne said that the community is better for McConville's selflessness.

"Sheriff McConville faced his long illness with the same strength and dignity that marked his career," the county executive added. "Even during the most difficult times, his focus was always on the safety and well-being of others. On behalf of all of Putnam County, I extend my deepest condolences to Kevin's family, friends, colleagues, and the men and women of the Sheriff's Department. He will be greatly missed."

McConville was elected sheriff in 2021. He announced a reelection bid in January, but he suspended the campaign in June because of health concerns.

McConville's more than three-decade-long law enforcement career included time with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Police Department, an agency he eventually led as Chief of the Department.

McConville was in New York City in the aftermath of the 9-11 terrorist attack. He put his experience to work helping MTA respond to the attacks, and developing strategies and deployment plans to maintain safety and security on the system.

"Sheriff McConville devoted his life to serving others with integrity, courage and compassion," Undersheriff Brian Hess said in a statement. "Our hearts are heavy as we stand with the McConville family, but we will honor his legacy with pride and continue the mission that we have to serve and protect Putnam County."

McConville and his wife Janice raised three children, who gave them two grandchildren, all of whom still live in Putnam County.