The local and state-wide increase in opiate overdoses has been making it more difficult for coroners to complete autopsy's.
We spoke to Lima Police Officials to see how this affects the investigation process.
Lima Police Department Chief of Police, Kevin Martin says delays in autopsy results does delay the steps in an investigation process. He says in the past they would get results in 2-3 months, but now they aren't seeing results until 5-6 months. Chief Martin says it could have to do with the increase in heroin overdoses, which creates a bigger workload for the coroner's office.
"It is very frustrating to us, but that's because, if there's someone who should be held accountable for someone's death, we want to be able to take appropriate action. but as frustrating as it is for us, i cannot even imagine what the family has to go through and that's where my heart really goes out to. To the loved one's who are wanting answers as to why someone they care so much and love so much is no longer with them," says Chief Martin.
Chief Martin says it's not the coroners fault, he says they are doing the best they can.
