Colorado Gov. Jared Polis on Friday called for a county coroner’s immediate resignation after state inspectors discovered about 20 decomposing bodies hidden behind a door in a funeral home he owned.
According to state regulators, Pueblo County Coroner Brian Cotter admitted to inspectors from the Department of Regulatory Agencies that some of the bodies had been awaiting cremation for nearly 15 years. Cotter also revealed that he may have given families fake ashes instead of their loved ones’ remains.
During Wednesday’s inspection of Davis Mortuary in Pueblo, investigators reported a “strong odor of decomposition” and found the bodies in a room concealed behind a cardboard display. Documents indicate that Cotter asked inspectors not to enter the room.
Governor Polis condemned Cotter’s actions, saying he undermined public trust and must step down. Since Cotter is an elected official, he cannot be removed by the governor directly but could face a recall election if voters petition for it.
“No one should ever have to wonder if their loved one is being taken care of with dignity and respect after they’ve passed, and Mr. Cotter must be held to account for his actions,” Polis said, urging further investigation.
Colorado has long faced criticism for having some of the weakest oversight of funeral homes in the nation, with no routine inspections or qualification requirements for operators. This lack of regulation has enabled several abuses, including a separate case where nearly 200 decomposing bodies were discovered stored at room temperature in a Penrose facility about 30 miles from Pueblo.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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