Strong Partnerships with Law Enforcement
Not every case under the responsibility of the Coroner involves Law Enforcement. Ultimate investigatory responsibility in an unknown death is shared. The Coroner's responsibility is to determine cause and manner of death. Determination of who falls to Law Enforcement, and ensuring Justice falls to the District Attorney. But all three of these responsibilities are critical to Eagle County. As Coroner, I will work diligently to ensure that these partnerships are fostered and respected, while upholding the obligations of the Coroner independently and lawfully.
Responsible Financial Stewardship
The Coroner oversees a budget of over $600,000. Eagle County does not have the capability to perform autopsies, and we outsource our autopsies to the front range for a fee. These fees are (rightfully) never passed onto the family of the decedent. While only 10-25% of deaths investigated by the Coroner require an autopsy, it is the Coroners responsibility to make the determination of which cases require an autopsy to determine manner of death or when an autopsy is statutorily required.
As Coroner, I pledge strong financial oversight to ensure that the obligations of the Office are met fully while also ensuring tax payer funds are respected.
Compassion and Respect For All
The death of a family member is distressing enough, the last thing family should deal with is an uncaring government office. As Coroner I promise that everyone, within Eagle County and around the world, will be met with compassion and sincere respect by the Office of Coroner.
Whether interviewing friends and family in an investigation, handling property return, or ensuring proper transfer for funeral arangements under my leadership the Office of Coroner will make the process as compassionate and transparent as possible.
Emergency Preparedness
The Coroner has a unique responsibility in disaster and emergency preparedness. COVID-19 opened our eyes to the flaws in our preparedness nationwide. As Coroner, I pledge to be an active participant in Eagle County's emergency preparedness planning. Ensuring that we are ready, at all times, to prepare ourselves for anything.
Public Education
The Coroner has a unique role as the ambassador between the Eagle County Government, and the largest heartache every resident will face. This comes with an obligation for transparency, for education, for advocacy. Under my administration, the Coroner's office will not take a backseat in preparing and educating Eagle County for life's inevitable tragedies. Forward thinking, modern and contemporary education to prepare every resident of Eagle County.