Danbury police sergeant, 45, dies after battle with cancer

DANBURY — The city’s police force is mourning the death of one of its sergeants, who died Sunday night after what the chief described as a “long and courageous battle with cancer.”

Chief Patrick Ridenhour said in a statement Monday that Sgt. David Cooney, a 20-year veteran with the department, was “loved and highly respected by those who knew him.”

He said Cooney, 45, was most recently assigned as supervisor of the Crime Scene Unit, administrator for the department’s records management system and liaison to several external agencies. Cooney also previously served as president of the police union for Danbury officers.

Cooney was promoted to the rank of sergeant in April 2006.

Cooney has had ties to the Danbury police force since his birth, with his father — Capt. Dennis Cooney — serving with the department for 21 years before he died from a heart attack while on duty in 1994, Ridenhour said.

“Dave will always be remembered for his dedicated service to the department and the city, and for his great sense of humor,” the chief said. “He will be sorely missed.”

Danbury Mayor Joseph M. Cavo in a statement Monday offered condolences and support to Cooney’s family and the police force.

“Sgt. Cooney will be greatly missed by all,” Cavo said.

The fire department, in a post on Facebook Monday morning, offered its condolences to the police department.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Sgt. Cooney’s family and all the members of the Danbury Police Department,” the fire department said. “May he rest in peace.”