Conflict in Prowers County over body storage location

A conflict has arisen in Prowers County, Colorado, regarding where to store deceased bodies. County Attorney Rose F. Pugliese has ordered Coroner Thomas Dunagan to stop using the county annex building for this purpose. She expressed concerns about liability and public health, stating the building lacks proper facilities like cameras and backup coolers. The dispute began after Pugliese sent Dunagan a letter on February 28, highlighting these issues. She mentioned that funeral homes were available and had traditionally stored bodies in the area. Dunagan responded that he needed to keep the bodies until autopsies are completed or they are released to funeral homes, stressing the importance of maintaining the chain of custody. Pugliese maintained that the current arrangement posed significant health risks, including odor and disease concerns. She also pointed out that the annex is not secure, as multiple people from various departments can access the cooler room where bodies are stored. Dunagan countered that he has used the annex for body storage since before his election and stated that the commissioners must provide a suitable alternative if they want him to stop. The stalemate continues, with Dunagan’s attorney declining to comment, and county officials also refusing interview requests. One local resident, Anthony Gazotti, expressed his worries about the situation, especially regarding the potential for power outages at the annex. He feels that his deceased family member deserves better care.