Saline County Commission Moves to Reappoint Dr. David Dupy as County Coroner

The Saline County Commission took action Monday to continue contract services with Dr. David Dupy as County Coroner for the 28th Judicial District.

Dr. Dupy, who has served since 2018, is completing his second four-year term. His current appointment runs from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2025.

Deputy Administrator Hannah Bett presented the coroner appointment to commissioners during the November 25 meeting.

The commission directed staff to renegotiate contract terms with Dr. Dupy and bring back a resolution and contract at a later date.

Dr. Dupy serves as coroner for both Saline and Ottawa counties. Under Kansas law, the coroner position is a judicial district function. Recent state legislation permits smaller counties within a judicial district to name their own coroners if they wish, though it's unclear if Ottawa County has done so.

During discussion, commissioners noted that many smaller counties struggle to find qualified coroners.

"We're very fortunate that Dr. Dupy has stepped up," one official said.

The 2026 budget for the county coroner includes all expenses, including compensation and costs for autopsies.

County coroners in Kansas are appointed to four-year terms and are responsible for investigating deaths that occur under unusual or suspicious circumstances.