Coroner Division

The division comprises two full-time civilian Deputy Coroners who manage death investigations during regular business hours. Additionally,  the Evidence Technician assists with scene processing and the handling of decedent personal property . To maintain continuous coverage, several sworn deputies and detention officers are trained as Deputy Coroners and participate in an on-call rotation, responding to after-hours cases on a voluntary basis.

The Coroner Division's duties include:

• Investigating deaths that are sudden, violent, or unexplained, or where the decedent has not been seen by a physician within 30 days prior to death.
• Conducting scene investigations, including photographing the scene, interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and notifying next of kin.
• Ordering autopsies and coordinating with the Montana State Crime Lab for toxicology and forensic testing.
• Determining the cause and manner of death, which may involve issuing a death certificate or a deferred certificate pending further investigation
• In cases involving deaths in law enforcement custody or caused by a peace officer, the division is required to conduct a coroner's inquest.

The Coroner Division emphasizes compassionate service, assisting families with the release of personal property and providing guidance on funeral arrangements. For those without sufficient funds for burial, the division facilitates county disposition, subject to proof of indigence. The division also maintains a list of local funeral homes and cleaning services to support families during their time of need.