Du Quoin woman Lindsey Baker a candidate for Perry Co. coroner

Du Quoin resident Lindsey Cadwell Baker is pleased to announce her candidacy for Perry County coroner in the upcoming 2016 election.

Baker, who received her bachelor's degree in anthropology and philosophy in 2004 and M.A. in physical anthropology in 2008, brings academic and practical experience to the race. Her Master's thesis at SIUC focused on forensic anthropology and she assisted in instructing forensic anthropology courses as well. Her graduate coursework also included human osteology and dental anthropology. Additionally, Baker has spent time as a skeletal analyst on archaeological projects though the Field Museum of Natural History, and as part of a team preparing Native American remains for reburial in Kentucky.

"The coroner needs a fairly unique skill set, and I'd love the opportunity to use my experience to help the people of Perry County. While it is not a career that most people aspire to, for me, it's the ideal way to meld my passion for science and humanity, while performing a public service" Baker said when discussing her decision to run. "It's a chance to give back to the community we have grown to love" she added.

Baker will be running against Republican Paul Searby, who has served as Perry County coroner since 2000. Baker and her husband Anthony moved to southern Illinois in 2005 and are now raising their family in Du Quoin. Anthony teaches science at Du Quoin High School and coaches the golf team, while Lindsey currently stays at home with their two young daughters, Wilhelmina (3) and Eleanor (1). For more information on her campaign, please visit the "Lindsey Cadwell Baker for Perry County Coroner" Facebook page.