HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. — Sheriff Al Nienhuis on Sunday announced the passing of Sgt. Louis "Lou" Genovese.
- Sgt. Louis "Lou" Genovese started with Sheriff's Office in 2006
- He was hospitalized about 3 weeks ago and died Saturday night
- Sheriff calls his passing a "heart wrenching loss"
Genovese was hospitalized about three weeks ago after a sudden onset medical condition. During that time, physicians worked tirelessly to correct that condition.
Genovese died peacefully Saturday night, surrounded by his family, friends, and Hernando County Sheriff's Office family.
He was 41 years old.
He started his career at the Hernando County Sheriff's Office in 2006 as a public service aide. He became a sergeant last year.
Genovese graduated from Springstead High School in 1996. He received a Baccalaureate Degree in Biblical Studies from Zion Bible College in 2000, and was currently working to attain a Master's degree.
"Lou was a man of God, who was loved and respected by his coworkers, his friends, and his family," Sheriff Nienhuis said.
"This is a heart wrenching loss. A few years ago Lou realized that he could have an even greater impact on the agency and the community by taking on a role as a leader and mentor. Lou and I spoke often about his progress in college, and about recent leadership revelations he had as a sergeant and mentor.
"I genuinely looked forward to him taking on additional responsibilities in the years to come. The silver lining is that Lou left a legacy and example that will have a positive impact on the agency for many years to come."