Local leaders debate coroner's inquest process

CREATED Dec. 4, 2012

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  • A heated debate took place at Tuesday's Clark County commission meeting over a revised coroner's inquest process meant to be a fact-finding procedure in officer-involved shootings. Video by ktnv.com

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Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- A heated debate took place at Tuesday's Clark County commission meeting over a revised coroner's inquest process meant to be a fact-finding procedure in officer-involved shootings.

But no vote was taken at the meeting.

'Go forward' was the concession on the controversial system aimed to give the public facts on officer-involved shootings.

But just how to do so is up in the air again, frustrating some.

Instead of taking action on Tuesday, the commission decided to draft two ordinances. 

The first will be similar to the one passed two years ago, but use a 'hearing master' instead of a 'justice of the peace' as the referee.

"And now we're being asked to fix something that isn't broken and hasn't even had an opportunity to be vetted," said county commissioner Chris Giunchigliani.

The second will likely come from commissioners Larry Brown or Steve Sisolake, and will probably use suggestions from the Sheriff to require only a deputy DA and the lead investigator of an officer-involved shooting to give statements.

The Sheriff noted that he's met with all interested parties, not just specific commissioners.

"I participate in the process, offer my recommendations and then follow through with ordiances that are inacted," said Sheriff Doug Gillespie.

The police union, which in the past has refused to participate in the coroner's inquest process altogether, said they'd be in support of the second option, but not the first.

"We'll support that and we'll take that to the membership and get them to participate," said Chris Collins with the Police Protective Association.

District Attorney Steve Wolfson said he's on board with any changes made.

Still, things got a little tense when he voiced support for the Sheriff's suggestions.

The DA did meet with the Sheriff, but both the DA and Sheriff said they'll support whichever system is adopted by the commissioners.

Both ordinances will be presented at the next commission meeting in two weeks.