What powers does a coroner have?

Simply put Pete, the SA Coroner has the broadest of powers with regard to hear evidence related to deaths & suspected deaths of persons where some doubts be raised as to how, when, where and why. They can direct police inquiries as to a particular line of interest they perceive to be important and their authority cannot to be overuled by any other power. In the case of Somerton Man, Coroner Cleland appointed PCC John Sutherland to be his SAPOL link to the Investigation and he stayed on the case from go to woa ie. Officer Sutherland was at the assumed death scene on day one, and was the last person to see Jerry before his coffin lid was sealed pre burial at West Terrrace cemetery. Scan the man was one of the pall bearers and there’s no doubting his dedication to coronial duties expected of him.

LikeLike

Absolutely Peteb. Happens all the time when investigations are incomplete; the coroner is most likely to agree to give police an extended time waiver which includes concealing the identities of witnesses with potentially case closing evidence.

LikeLike