Sheriff Napoleon Explores Detroit Mayoral Run

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon says he's considering a run for Detroit mayor in 2013.

The 57-year-old ex-Detroit police chief told WWJ Newsradio 950 he'll create an exploratory committee next week. He says his focus will be crime and the uncertain future of the city as its financial condition deteriorates.

Napoleon says Mayor Dave Bing is an "honorable guy," but says Bing's support in the community is weak because of his failure to connect with residents, work effectively with City Council members and achieve tangible results.

So, who might Napoleon face on the ticket?

Bing hasn't said if he'll seek another four-year term. The mayor's Bing spokesman Anthony Neely said Bing's office has no comment on Napoleon's statements.

Mike Duggan this fall left his post as chief of the Detroit Medical Center and formed an exploratory committee – which then lets him raise campaign money.  He hasn't said for sure yet if he'll run, but told WWJ his decision will not hinge on who else is running.

Napoleon said he'll talk more about his possible run next week.

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