Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson Says He's Battling Cancer

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson has revealed he is battling cancer.

"Recently, I was diagnosed with cancer. As a man of intense faith, I intend to fight and win the battle against this disease," Thompson, 50, said in a statement released Tuesday. "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."

Chief Assistant Eric Gonzalez will step in during times when he's receiving treatment and recovering, Thompson said.

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

NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill issued a statement late Tuesday offering well-wishes to Thompson.

"We were saddened to learn earlier today of Kings County District Attorney Ken Thompson's diagnosis with cancer. He is both a colleague and a friend," O'Neill said in the statement. "We offer him our prayers for a speedy recovery. We will continue working with Chief Assistant Eric Gonzales and the rest of his staff in his absence."

Thompson is the borough's first African-American district attorney. He took office in 2014.

The Kings County District Attorney's office is one of the nation's busiest prosecutor offices and handles more than 80,000 cases a year.