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Coroner proposes expanded office and possible forensic lab; prosecutors and police urge local capacity
Summary
Clermont County Coroner Dr. Brian Treon proposed leasing space to expand operations and potentially create a forensic crime lab; multiple prosecutors and local police testified in support, and the board approved a small OCJS grant to purchase evidence tracking software for the Prosecuting Attorney.
Dr. Brian Treon, M.D., Clermont County Coroner, told the Board on July 9 that the Coroner’s Office needs additional space to support operations and to explore creating an on‑site forensic crime lab. Commissioners asked about a mold issue and whether an external agency had completed an investigation; Facilities installed dehumidification and the Board requested documentation and an agreement with the external agency before proceeding.
During the public participation period, representatives from the Prosecuting Attorney’s Felony Division and local police urged the county to develop local forensic capacity to reduce investigative delays. The record lists Lara Barron Allen and Christina D’Attilo of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Felony Division and several law‑enforcement officials from Pierce, Bethel and Goshen Townships speaking in support. Board members asked the Coroner about equipment needs and costs; Chief Coroner Investigator Ken Mullis described proposed technical and digital equipment benefits.
Separately, the board approved acceptance of a 2025 Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) Ohio Sexual Assault Investigations grant for the Prosecuting Attorney to purchase evidence tracking software and related equipment in the amount of $7,290 (100% OCJS funded). The board also authorized the Sheriff’s Office agreement for psychological services (not to exceed $15,000) and discussed partnering space offers from county departments to accommodate displaced or expanded operations.
No final vote was recorded to lease space or to create a lab; the Coroner was asked to obtain the external agency agreement and related reports and to refine cost estimates for any equipment or lease commitments.
