Editor’s Note: An article announcing the date, time and location of a caucus to elect a new county coroner was published on Nov. 14, 2022. The coverage of the caucus was published on Dec. 1, 2022.

Dear Editor:

I would like to share my thoughts reference the importance of this upcoming election. As a four-term coroner, serving the citizens of Kosciusko County for 16 years as an office holder and a senior investigator for 16 years, I feel this upcoming election is of great importance.

The office of the coroner has substantial significance and influence on many investigations. Death investigations are the primary function. However, law enforcement, medical and family survivors depend upon a complete, expert and competent analysis for answers. This may only be achieved by experience, not a popularity contest or an “appointment” by a “secret” caucus and without the general voting public.

This office requires certification by the Indiana State Coroners Training Board by passing the required education and maintaining continuing education hours in order to become the office holder. Years of experience, investigatory involvement, and current prior certification as held by Tracy Cutler-Wilson, will better serve all of the aforementioned parties.

The coroner’s office of Kosciusko County has been involved in the primary establishment, written training and testing standards, and initiation of the State Training Board. In addition, prior members have served as training instructors and executive officers on the Indiana State Coroner’s Association Executive Board.

Public awareness and education of the responsibilities of the coroner’s office have been paramount both locally and statewide. As a result of the dedication of past coroners and staff, we now have a forensic center based in Warsaw, and computerized investigation records. Tracy has been involved with this association as an investigator for over 20 years, not just since 2023 as an “appointee” to fill a vacancy.

She has dedicated those years to compassionately serving the citizens of Kosciusko County with Experience, Integrity, and Commitment and will continue to represent all of the citizens of Kosciusko County she will serve.

John Sadler
Former Coroner, County of Kosciusko