County coroner loses certification

By By Chris Allen Baker/staff writer
March 1, 2002
State officials have revoked Coroner Marl C. Cobler's certification as a "medical examiner investigator," forcing the Lauderdale County Board of Supervisors to discuss the appointment of a temporary replacement.
Dr. Sam Howell of the state medical examiner's office in Jackson said Cobler failed to complete 24 hours of continuing education courses required annually by state law.
As an elected official, Cobler still holds the position of county coroner, but does not hold the dual title of county medical examiner investigator.
Cobler declined to comment.
In a work session Thursday morning, Lauderdale supervisors discussed appointing Clayton Cobler to fill in.
Clayton Cobler, Marl Cobler's son, is the director of Metro Ambulance Service and currently serves as deputy medical examiner. Supervisors are expected to discuss the issue again during Monday's regular board meeting.