Which individual has the authority to release a deceased person's information to the public?

The authority to release a deceased person's information to the public primarily rests with the county coroner or medical examiner. This is because these officials are responsible for determining the cause of death, conducting investigations when necessary, and maintaining official death records. They have the legal mandate to provide information regarding the circumstances surrounding a death, which typically includes information relevant to the public interest, such as details about the death and the identity of the deceased.

In many cases, medical examiners and coroners operate under specific statutes and regulations that guide the release of information and protect the privacy of the deceased and their families. They ensure that the release of information is conducted in a manner consistent with legal requirements and ethical standards.

Other individuals, such as legal representatives or family members, usually do not have the authority to independently release such information to the public without going through the proper channels or obtaining permission. Additionally, funeral homes are involved in the management of arrangements but do not possess the legal authority to disclose information about the deceased to the public in the way that coroners or medical examiners do.