Letter: Shannon County coroner addresses sheriff’s statements

The sheriff’s recent statement misrepresents Missouri law and the statutory duties of the coroner. The truth is straightforward:

1. By law, the coroner – not the sheriff – takes charge of all death investigations. RSMo § 58.451: “The coroner shall take charge of the dead body and fully investigate the essential facts concerning the medical causes of death and whether it was the act of man.”
2. The sheriff’s role is limited to assistance and reporting. RSMo § 58.451.2: “The law enforcement officer shall assist the coroner … by making an investigation … and preparing a report which shall be incorporated into the coroner’s report.” The sheriff observes, documents and files a subsidiary report – not lead the investigation.
3. Coroners are not mere record keepers. Subpoena power (§ 58.330), writs of attachment (§ 58.380), autopsy authority (§ 58.451.4) and control of evidence (§ 58.451.5) are investigative powers.
4. Felony charges cannot sit “on the sheriff’s desk.” Only the prosecutor may file charges (§ 56.060). Statements to the contrary are legally false.
5. Next-of-kin notifications follow the coroner’s determination of identity. The sheriff has no statutory mandate for this function.

Boundaries are clear:

1. The sheriff preserves peace.
2. The coroner investigates deaths.
3. The prosecutor files charges.

Sheriff Hogan’s attempt to expand his authority into the exclusive jurisdiction of the coroner disregards Missouri law, undermines the justice process and risks public trust.

The coroner’s office will continue to uphold the law faithfully, transparently and professionally, as required by statute.