Condolences poured in following the passing of longtime Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran who died Monday after a long battle with medical conditions.
The Mobile County Commission released a statement on behalf of the community.
“For nearly five decades, Sheriff Cochran devoted his life to serving the people of Mobile County,” the Commission stated. “From his career with the Mobile Police Department, where he rose to become Chief of Police, to four terms as Sheriff, he earned the respect of colleagues and citizens alike through his steady leadership, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to public service.
“It was a privilege to work alongside Sheriff Cochran,” the statement continued. “He led with quiet confidence, treated people with dignity and respect, and never lost sight of the responsibility that comes with serving others.
“Few people spend a lifetime serving one community. Sheriff Cochran did, and Mobile County is better for it. We are grateful for his service, his leadership, and the example he leaves behind. May he rest in peace.”
The law enforcement community also weighed in.
Former Baldwin County Sheriff and current executive director of the Alabama Sheriffs Association Huey “Hoss” Mack said, “Today I lost a dear friend, Sheriff Sam Cochran and I were elected in the same year we served together in our neighboring counties. Our relationship was not professional only, but it was also personal. He truly left a legacy in law enforcement. He will be sorely missed, but he will always be remembered.”
State Rep. Shane Stringer (R-Citronelle), who previously worked under Sheriff Cochran, released a statement.
“Sheriff Cochran was one of the smartest and most respected law enforcement leaders I have ever had the privilege to work for,” Stringer said. “His leadership, integrity, and dedication to serving others left a lasting impact on so many of us in law enforcement.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone whose lives he touched during this difficult time,” Stringer added. “Rest in peace, my friend. You will be greatly missed.”
Monroe County Sheriff Tom Boatwright extended condolences to Cochran’s family and those who served with Cochran.
“It is with deep sadness that we join the law enforcement community across Alabama in mourning the passing of former Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran,” Boatwright stated. “Sheriff Cochran dedicated his life to public service and served the citizens of Mobile County with honor, integrity, and unwavering commitment. His leadership, professionalism, and devotion to protecting others left a lasting impact on countless lives and on the law enforcement profession as a whole.”
The Mobile County Republican Party stated, “A true man of service who loved Mobile. We’ve lost a great one. Our deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and all who served with him. Former Sheriff Sam Cochran- a patriot warrior for justice.”
Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch told 1819 News that he had lost a great friend with whom he had worked for over two decades. Burch said the passing was heartbreaking and he plans to release a statement on the loss of his longtime friend.
The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office said Cochran passed away peacefully surrounded by his family and close friends. Funeral arrangements have not been released.
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