December 17, 2024 – The El Paso County Board of Commissioners has appointed Dr. Emily Russell-Kinsley to serve as the new El Paso County Coroner, effective January 1, 2025, at 12:00 a.m. The appointment follows the resignation of Dr. Leon Kelly, whose tenure as Coroner will conclude on December 31, 2024.
Under the Colorado Constitution, the Board of Commissioners is required to fill the vacancy in the Office of Coroner until the next general election. This appointment ensures uninterrupted operations of the Coroner’s Office, which is tasked with determining causes of death, conducting forensic investigations, and providing critical support to law enforcement and public health agencies.
Currently, Dr. Russell-Kinsley serves as the Deputy Chief Medical Examiner for the El Paso County Coroner’s Office, a position she has held since 2018. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role. Dr. Russell-Kinsley began her career as a medical examiner in 2012 and has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to the field.
In 2019, she was appointed as the Colorado Cold Case Task Force forensic pathology representative. Additionally, she has been a member of the Colorado Coroner’s Association Board of Directors since 2019, working to enhance practices and policies in coroner offices statewide. Her involvement in legislative matters reflects her commitment to improving the coroner system in Colorado for the benefit of communities across the state.
Russell-Kinsley expressed gratitude for her appointment: “I am honored to be entrusted with this responsibility. I look forward to serving the people of El Paso County and ensuring that the Coroner’s Office continues to meet the community’s needs while fulfilling its crucial mission to the highest standard.”
Carrie Geitner, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners, emphasized the significance of the appointment: “This appointment is crucial to ensure the Coroner’s Office continues its essential work serving El Paso County residents without interruption. The Board approached this responsibility with the utmost diligence, recognizing the office’s vital role in our community. After careful consideration, we are confident Emily Russell-Kinsley will lead the office with the expertise, professionalism, and dedication needed to meet the high standards our residents expect and deserve.”
Russell-Kinsley will serve as County Coroner until the next general election.
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