BUFFALO, N.Y. — Former Erie County Sheriff Thomas Higgins has died.
Higgins served as sheriff from 1986 through 1997. Before his terms as sheriff, he served as undersheriff from 1978 through 1985 and worked for the Buffalo Police Department for 21 years.
Higgins was 88-years-old.
Congressman Brian Higgins (D-26) says Sheriff Higgins leaves behind an exceptional legacy of service as the most-accomplished law enforcement leader of his generation.
"We will miss his grand presence and big smile but are forever grateful to have had Sheriff Higgins as a leader and friend to Western New York," the congressman said.
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz (D) is ordering all flags at Erie County facilities be flown at half-staff through Friday.
Poloncarz released a statement said in part:
"Sheriff Higgins served with distinction and was highly regarded by all who knew him. I had the pleasure to know Sheriff Higgins for more than twenty years and relied on his advice in dealing with a number of county issues. I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends."