Lake County Tags Former Police Chief for Coroner

Former Waukegan Police Chief Artis Yancey has been chosen Lake County Coroner. Lake County Board Chairman David Stolman announced the appointment at a press conference, today.

The county board will vote on the appointment of Yancey at its April 12 meeting. Former coroner Dr. Richard Keller resigned in February after pleading guilty to felony charges of obstructing justice and unlawful delivery of a controlled substance.

"Artis Yancey is extremely qualified for this position. He has more than 20 years of law enforcement experience, working up the ranks in the Waukegan Police Department from a patrol officer to detective, sergeant, deputy chief, and police chief. His experience and proven ability to be an effective leader makes him the perfect candidate,” said Stolman, in a press release issued by Lake County.

The selection committee was impressed with Yancey’s experience in investigating deaths and interacting with families following a death, according to the release. The committee included Stolman, County Board Member Audrey Nixon, Sheriff Mark Curran, State's Attorney Michael Waller, State Sen. Terry Link, and George Filenko, president of the Chiefs of Police Association. 

According to Illinois law, the appointee must be the same party as the vacating official. Yancey and Keller are Democrats.

Stolman noted that Yancey’s 20-year career is unblemished, in the release.

"I'm very excited about the opportunity to serve as Lake County Coroner and being able to continue to serve the public, as I've done for more than 20 years. I look forward to working with the various departments and agencies throughout Lake County to bring credibility and professionalism to the Coroner's Office,” Yancey said in the release.