ADA, Minn. (KFGO) – Norman County Sheriff Jeremy Thornton died Thursday morning after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.
Clay County Sheriff Mark Empting said Thornton, who was diagnosed Dec. 8, passed away peacefully around 7:15 a.m. with his family at his side.
Empting said he was asked to disclose the information by Thornton’s family, who wanted to thank the community for their support.
Information regarding funeral arrangements will be released on Friday.
Thornton was first elected sheriff in 2010 and was re-elected to another four-year term in November.
Sheriff Thornton was 53.