Lee County Judge John Carlin dies following 'cardiac event'

LEE COUNTY, Fla. — Lee County Judge John Carlin has died following a cardiac event last Friday.

He was reported to be in the ICU, but on Thursday, he passed away just after 5 p.m.

Lee County spokeswoman, Sarah Miles, released a statement following the news.

It reads, in part, "Throughout his years on the bench, he earned the respect of colleagues and members of the legal community for his commitment to the judicial process and his service to the community."

The Lee County School District released a statement following the news. It reads, in part, "Judge Carlin dedicated over 35 years to serving the people of Southwest Florida, first as a Lee County Judge and later as a Circuit Court Judge in the Twentieth Judicial Circuit."

John Carlin's wife, Lee County Superintendent Denise Carlin, released a statement following the initial reports of the cardiac event:

Judge John Carlin suffered a cardiac event last Friday and remains in the ICU as doctors continue to monitor his condition and conduct further testing.

His family is deeply grateful for the swift response of first responders and the exceptional care being provided by the medical team.

They ask for continued prayers during this difficult time and respectfully request privacy as they focus on his care and recovery.

The Carlin family is asking for privacy during this time.