Yakima County coroner pleads not guilty to drug theft charges

Yakima County Coroner Jim Curtice pleaded not guilty to charges of official misconduct, false statements, and evidence tampering. He is accused of taking drugs from corpses and using them at work. He was released on his own recognizance. Curtice's legal troubles began after he claimed someone spiked his drinks with drugs. An investigation revealed he admitted to using drugs found on bodies. He faces a recall effort and scrutiny over a jail death case he oversaw. The city prosecutor is handling Curtice's case to avoid conflicts of interest. His next court date is set for March 27. If he returns to work, key staff members have indicated they will resign.