What are the duties of a coroner and why do I want the job?
The duties of a coroner is to take charge of the deceased’s body and determining the time and the cause of death, while looking into if any suspicious activity that may have contributed to the cause of death that may be considered criminal. The coroner and the deputy coroners have the same responsibilities and work with filling out the death certificates. I have served as a chaplain for several organizations and part of the role of a chaplain is to give comfort to the family, I would like to extend my role past being the Coroner and to help the family during a very difficult time.
What additional service can a coroner provide for a family?
Every family deals with grief differently, I would like to be able to produce a small pamphlet with information where if the family decides that there is a need for additional support, they will have the needed info, such as support groups and the contact numbers.
What qualities, education and/ or experience makes you the best candidate for the position?
I am a graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, where my major is in Christian education. While studying at New Orleans I took classes in grief counseling. Upon becoming a chaplain for law enforcement, I attended and graduated from state chaplain school, also as a pastor, I have been in the position to minister to families at the sudden death of a loved one.
Jones County has two deputy coroners to help with the round-the-clock coverage required for the office. Do you think two is enough, too many?
I would like to add two additional deputy coroners. The coroner and the two deputy coroners are all part time, this would not increase the budget on answering calls as they are paid only when they answer a call, it would add to the line item in the budget just for them to attend school which is week-long. The need for more deputy coroners is vital for when someone is sick or on vacation.
Coroner’s inquests have been rare in Jones County.
What is a coroner’s inquest and when is it needed?
An inquest is needed to help with determining the manner and cause of a person’s death, certain guidelines and circumstances are needed to determine if the need for an inquest is applicable.
The county does not have its own refrigerated storage unit to keep bodies when needed for transport. Do you think Jones County needs a cooler?
At this current time, I do not.
How important is the relationship between coroner and law enforcement and why?
The relationship is vital, the law enforcement is the first to arrive on the scene and has already begun to determine the cause of death and the emotional state of the family involved. The Coroner’s office is there to assist the law enforcement and to serve the family with dignity.
Can you explain when an autopsy is required following a death and who performs it?
An autopsy is required when there are questions that need to be confirmed regarding the identity, the time of death and the cause of death, the autopsy is performed by a medical examiner.
What would you like voters to know about you before casting their ballot?
I have enjoyed raising my children with my wife, Amy, in Jones County for the past 21 years, this is home to us. My interest and love for this community has evolved through the years. I feel like this is the right time to run for office and further my passion for serving this community as county Coroner. I would certainly appreciate your vote.
