Retired admiral denounces dealers after death of son

Retired Adm. James “Sandy” Winnefeld issued a statement Saturday expressing sorrow for the loss of his son Jonathan, a 19year-old University of Denver freshman who died of an apparent accidental overdose Thursday, and condemning drug dealing.

“We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful and loving son Jonathan, who was so excited to be attending the University of Denver as a freshman,” he said. “He had been in successful addiction recovery for over 16 months, earning his emergency medical technician qualification along the way because he so badly wanted to help others, especially young people, avoid his experience. Sadly, he passed away while fighting honorably against the demons that finally denied his ability to do something he loved.”

“The University of Denver, the Denver Police, and our many relatives and friends have been incredibly supportive, which is making a huge difference to us at a horrible time,” the statement continued. “But nobody should have to experience this. Anyone who says drug dealing is a non-violent crime should spend a day in our shoes. Selling heroin is tantamount to attempted murder, and should be treated as such. While we realize that drug addiction is a multidimensional problem, it’s time to close the open air drug markets in this wonderful city.”

Sandy Winnefeld is a retired four-star Navy admiral who served as Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 20112015.