Charged coroner submits resignation letter


May 7, 2012 at 8:33a.m.

Charged coroner submits resignation letter

CARLISLE, Pa. (AP) — A central Pennsylvania coroner accused of swiping medication during a death investigation has submitted his letter of resignation.

Cumberland County Coroner Todd Eckenrode says he’ll step down at midnight Saturday.

Eckenrode was charged in January with illegally taking seized prescription medication for his own use rather than destroying it. His attorney says he plans to plead guilty.

Defense attorney Matthew Gover has said Eckenrode already had a prescription for the medication.

Eckenrode said in his May 1 resignation letter to Gov. Tom Corbett that he made “some poor decisions” and must accept the consequences of his actions.

Chief Deputy Coroner Matt Stoner will assume Eckenrode’s duties on an interim basis. His next court hearing is scheduled for June 14.