Widely-respected Magistrate David Whittle is to become South Australia’s next State Coroner, following the resignation of Mark Johns at the end of August.
Acting Attorney-General, Rob Lucas said Mr Whittle has served the Magistrates Court with distinction since his appointment nearly ten years ago.
“Since he was appointed to the Magistrates Court, he has taken on senior roles, serving as Regional Manager first at the Port Adelaide Magistrate’s Court and subsequently at the Christies Beach Magistrates Court,” Mr Lucas said.
“In addition, he has had extensive experience as a prosecutor in both South Australia and New South Wales.
“I am confident he will be able to approach his new duties with the independence, sensitivity and rigour he has applied to all his work in the past.”
The Acting Attorney-General also thanked outgoing State Coroner Mark Johns for his contribution.
“In his time as State Coroner, Mark has overseen the investigation of a number of highly complex, deeply tragic matters,” Mr Lucas said.
“The Government acknowledges his absolute commitment to the job, cutting to the heart of the matter and striving to make recommendations that can ensure we learn from the mistakes of the past by improving our systems.
“I thank him for his work, and wish him all the best for the future.”
Mr Johns will go on leave later next month, formally retiring from the position at the end of August.
To ensure a smooth transition, Mr Whittle will move to the Coroner’s Court as a Deputy State Coroner from 15 July 2019 and will assume responsibility for the Court and coronial proceedings from that point, before formally commencing as State Coroner from 1 September.
