“He was always smiling. In the morning, even after a 12-hour shift or however long he was on (duty the night prior), he was just smiling and wanting to talk and just touch base with everybody” (Ford County Chief Deputy Sheriff Dave Kaeding).

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On September 23, 2021, Deputy Brian Norton died from complications as a result of contracting COVID-19 in the line of duty. Norton contracted COVID-19 while arresting a subject for aggravated battery, aggravated intimidation, resisting a peace officer, obstructing justice, and obstructing service of civil process who was positive.

Deputy Norton had served with the Ford County Sheriff’s Office since 2019 and for law enforcement for 10 years in Paxton, Gilman, Onarga, and Rossville.

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Despite contracting COVID in 2021, his End of Watch date is February 5, 2022. Brian is survived by his father, longtime girlfriend and her children, and brother. He is remembered as a Cubs fan and avid golfer known for wearing a distinct cologne and his hair neatly styled.

Our hearts are with the Norton family and the Ford County Sheriff’s Office.

To donate in memory of Deputy Brian Norton, please visit our fallen heroes donation page.