Community Corner

Lake County Seeking New Coroner

In light of Richard Keller's resignation, the county is looking for a new coroner.

Lake County Board Chairman David Stolman is searching for a replacement for Richard Keller who resigned yesterday as the Lake County Coroner.

Keller was charged with obstructing justice and unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, according to Lake County State's Attorney Michael Waller. After pleading guilty to both felony charges, Keller immediately resigned his post as Lake County Coroner on Tuesday.

Stolman now has to appoint someone to fill the vacancy within 60 days, with the advice and consent of the county board, according to Illinois state law. The appointee is required to be a Democrat, which is the same political party as Keller was.

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The Coroner's Office is a countywide elected office responsible for investigating the manner and cause of deaths occurring within Lake County. The appointee will serve the remainder of Keller's term, which runs until November 2012.

The person must also be a resident of Lake County, and within 30 days of taking office, apply for admission to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board's coroners training program.  

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"The recent vacancy of this countywide office presents an opportunity for those who have a passion to serve and to protect the public's interest," said Stolman. "I look forward to hearing from people willing to serve the remainder of this term and appointing a well-qualified candidate."

Residents interested in serving as coroner are encouraged to submit their resume and letter of interest via email at countyboard@lakecountyil.gov, or mail to: Lake County Board Chairman David Stolman, Lake County Board Office - 10th floor, 18 N. County Street, Waukegan, IL 60085.


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