Officials from the Hudson Valley are mourning the loss of a former Sheriff.

The Ulster County Sheriff’s office announced that retired sheriff Michael Lapaglia recently passed away.
Lapaglia served as the Ulster County Sheriff from 1987 to 1998.

“His service to the residents of Ulster County will never be forgotten and he will always be missed,” the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office said on Facebook.

Other police agencies and local residents remember Lapaglia fondly.

“Rest in Peace Sheriff,” Frank Faluotico said in the comments section of the Ulster County Sheriff’s Post. “You set the course for the future to follow. Thank you for you guidance, friendship and service.”

“It was a pleasure and an honor to have worked with you in the Organized Crime Unit in the late 70's,” Pat Hoetger wrote.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Retired Sheriff Michael Lapaglia and all the members of the Ulster County Sheriff's Office,” Town of Ulster Police said.

More information regarding Lapaglia’s passing weren’t released and at this time his funeral proceedings will be for family and friends only.

“We kindly ask you respect the wishes of the family of former Sheriff Lapaglia and give them privacy during their time of sorrow,” the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office said.

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