Republican Linda Besler likely next DeKalb County coroner

DeKalb County will have a new face assuming the head of the coroner’s office for the first time since 1984 if unofficial election results hold from Tuesday: Republican Linda Besler.

Race results are not certified until two weeks after the election.

In a social media post Wednesday, Besler thanked her supporters.

“I am deeply honored and would like to thank each and every one of you who have supported, guided and placed your faith in me,” Besler wrote on her campaign page. “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve our community as your next coroner. I am humbled by the trust you have placed in me, and I am excited about the journey that lies ahead.”

Besler faced off against Democrat Cat Prescott to replace Dennis Miller, who announced in September 2023 that he won’t seek reelection to his 11th term as coroner.

With 69 out of 69 precincts reporting, Besler grabbed 25,690 votes, or 56%, compared with Prescott’s 20,057 votes, or 43%, according to the DeKalb County Clerk and Recorder’s Office.

Besler said she’s hopes to continue the legacy left behind by Miller.

“The role of coroner is not one to be taken lightly,” Besler wrote in a campaign announcement Wednesday. “It is a responsibility that requires vision, empathy and unwavering dedication. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the tremendous leadership that has come before me. I am committed to upholding and building upon the legacy that Dennis Miller leaves behind. I pledge to give my best to this position, and to serve with integrity and transparency, and to continue the exemplary service the community has been accustomed to for the past four decades. Thank you all for this opportunity.”

On Tuesday night, Prescott said she’s proud of what her campaign has accomplished.

“I fully believe that people should have a choice,” Prescott said. “Offices shouldn’t run unopposed.”

Besler has 10 years of experience working as a dispatcher for the DeKalb Police Department and has been working the past four years as an administrative deputy coroner under Miller. Prescott has an undergraduate degree in rehabilitation and disability services, along with a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling with a specialization in trauma and grief.

This story was updated at 12:31 a.m. Nov. 6, 2024. More updates could occur.