CARMEL – For the first time in more than a quarter century, when residents of Putnam County head to the polls next Tuesday they will be voting in a contested race for coroner.
Incumbents Dr. Michael Nesheiwat and John Bourges ran unopposed in 2014, 2018 and 2022. Putnam’s third coroner, Wendy Erickson, was elected in 2020 and reelected in 2024. All three are Republican-Conservatives.
The last time a coroner faced opposition was in 2000 when William Stahl who held the position for 32 years before retiring, defeated Dr. Cynthia Ligenza.
Democrat Dr. Michael Strauss of Putnam Valley is challenging the incumbents next week running on the Democratic and Putnam Party line.
Putnam’s coroners are paid $48,173 annually.
Under the county’s charter, coroners do not have to hold a medical degree, yet they must have a thorough knowledge of medical practices and applicable laws, and strong investigative skills.
Last year, the Putnam Coroner’s Office investigated 200 deaths; 45 required autopsies by a pathologist or medical examiner.
Coroners are called to investigate suspicious and violent deaths, including those resulting from crimes, suicide or accidents.
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