Florida Sheriff's Deputy Dies of Complications From Coronavirus

CLAY COUNTY, Florida -- A Clay County Sheriff's deputy has died of complications from COVID-19.

Sgt. Eric Twisdale, who joined the Sheriff's Office in 1998, was serving as the supervisor of the Crime Scene Unit at the time of his death, according to a news release.

"Along the way, he earned a reputation for being courageous and having a huge heart. He was awarded the agency’s Lifesaving Award in 2014 for saving an individual from drowning," officials said in a statement on his death Wednesday. "In 2015 Sergeant Twisdale was recognized as the Deputy of the Year for displaying exceptional valor during the apprehension of two murder suspects."

Twisdale was assigned to the Patrol Division before being transferred to the Detective Division. In 2010 he was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He served as a team leader on the Dive Team, Honor Guard, and Crisis Negotiation Team for the Clay County Sheriff's Office.

Funeral arrangements are pending.