WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Robert Neumann, who was Palm Beach County's sheriff from 1997-2000, has died, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said Tuesday.
Neumann, 81, of Palm Beach Gardens, died on Feb. 5.
He defeated Sheriff Charles McCutcheon in November 1996.
In 2000, Neumann was beaten by Ed Bieluch, who served until 2004 when he decided not to run again.
Rick Bradshaw was elected in 2004 and is running for a sixth four-year term this year.
"In Loving Memory of Sheriff Robert Neumann it is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Former Sheriff Robert Neumann, a beacon of dedication and service within our community," the sheriff's office said in a news release.
The sheriff's office said Neumann led the PBSO "with unparalleled distinction, having previously served with the FBI. His tenure was marked by dedication, courage and a deep commitment to the citizens of Palm Beach County."
He is survived by his wife Babs, their children and grandchildren.
No funeral arrangements have been announced.