Veteran Norton police sergeant dies after battling COVID-19

NORTON, Mass. — A veteran Norton police sergeant, husband and father has died after battling COVID-19, the Norton Police Department said in a statement on Wednesday.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Desfosses was diagnosed with COVID-19, influenza and pneumonia in early December, according to a family friend who created a GoFundMe page. Desfosses tried to recover at home for two weeks before going to a Boston hospital last month.

“It is with great sadness that Chief Brian Clark and the members of the Norton Police Department announce the passing of Detective Sergeant Stephen Desfosses after a courageous battle with Covid 19. Members of his family were by his side when he peacefully passed,” the department said in a statement on its Facebook page.

“Detective Sergeant Desfosses proudly and distinctly served the community of Norton for over 30 years. He was a loyal, trusted and dedicated member of this department holding many positions including Detective Division Commander, shift supervisor, training officer and he commanded the award-winning Norton Police Honor Guard,” the statement said. “Please take a moment to remember Detective Sergeant Desfosses and keep his family in your thoughts and prayers.”

Clark, the police chief, said he and Desfosses attended the police academy together. Desfosses joined the Norton Police Department in 1988 as a part-time special police officer. He was later hired as a full-time officer and promoted about a decade ago to detective sergeant.

“He’s a tough guy, probably one of the toughest guys I know,” Clark said last month, adding that in addition to being a highly respected officer, Desfosses is also a family man and great dad.

“We thank the community for the outpouring of support shown to the Desfosses family and the members of the police department during this difficult time... Please allow his family privacy during this difficult time,” the statement said.

Funeral plans will be announced when finalized.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW