Brooklyn DA Thompson has cancer

Kings County District Attorney Kenneth Thompson has cancer. The Brooklyn prosecutor announced his illness in a statement released Tuesday.

"As a man of intense faith, I intend to fight and win the battle against this disease," he said in the statement. "I humbly seek your sincere prayers as I confront this challenge and respectfully ask that you honor my family's need and wish for privacy during this time."

He did not specify the type of cancer that was diagnosed.

Thompson said he will be taking time to undergo treatment and to recover. During those absences, Chief Assistant District Attorney Eric Gonzalez will be in charge of the office.

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams offered support to the DA.

"I have no doubt that District Attorney Thompson will fight cancer with the same conviction and vigor that he has displayed his entire career," Adams, a former police captain, said. "I pray for him and his family at this challenging hour, with hope and optimism for the future we will enjoy together."

Thompson, who took office in 2014, did not say how long his treatment is expected to last.

"I thank you in advance for your prayers and look forward to rejoining you on the battlefield for justice," Thompson said.