CANDIDATE PROFILES: Sanders County Coroner

NAME: PAT BARBER

OCCUPATION: Sanders County Coroner

EDUCATION: Associate Degree in General Studies, Associate Degree in Automotive and Diesel Technology, Preparatory Studies in Criminal Justice, EMT/Medical, Forensic Science, Anatomy and Physiology, Phlebotomy, Medical and Crime Scene Investigation Techniques, Death and Dying, and Psycho-Social applications.

What qualities make you the best candidate for this position?

Experience, Compassion, a desire to help others and committed to the truth. I have been the appointed County Coroner since November of 2021; prior I was a Deputy Coroner since December 2019. For the last 33 years I have been rescuing people or coming to the aid of individuals experiencing a medical emergency, trauma, or an accident. I have served all ages, from birth to geriatric. Losing someone close to you is difficult, no matter what the circumstances are. I can empathize with the feelings of loss and consider it a privilege to help others in their time of need.

What are the top three responsibilities of the county coroner?

I think a good answer to that question is to quote my Coroner Office Mission statement. “Accurately determine the cause and manner of death of individuals that die in the jurisdiction of Sanders County. Produce honest, thorough and correct investigations using professional Medicolegal standards with trained, professional coroner/deputy coroners. Protect the wishes and assists of the deceased. Assist the bereaved ones in their loss. Earn the trust and respect of the citizens of Sanders County.”

What is the biggest challenge facing the coroner’s office and how do you plan to face that challenge?

The biggest challenge is the growth of our population. I have already started addressing this issue. I have created an office policy and procedure manual; this gives us solid guidelines to work within and promotes efficiency. I have purchased two Coroners vehicles, these provided flexibility, reduces time on scene and allows us to transport professionally and with dignity. We now file 100% of the cases on a statewide computer system. Implemented training that will help the office handle the increased number of deaths and accurately process the more complicated deaths that come with an increase in population.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Candidate Martin Spring is also listed on the General Election ballot. He informed The Sanders County Ledger last week that he is no longer pursuing the position and wishes to remain with the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office.