Welcome to the County Coroner’s Office. The Cleburne County Coroner’s Office serves a vital role in the administration of justice and public safety. Tasked with determining the cause and manner of deaths that occur under certain circumstances, the office operates with integrity, transparency, and respect for the deceased and their loved ones.
Through collaboration with law enforcement, medical professionals, and forensic experts, the Coroner’s Office conducts thorough investigations to ensure accurate, timely, and compassionate service. In addition to death investigations, the office may be responsible for maintaining death records, facilitating the identification of decedents, and providing support to families during times of loss.
With a commitment to public service and community well-being, the Cleburne County Coroner’s Office upholds the highest standards in forensic science and ethical responsibility.
The mission of the Cleburne County Coroner’s Office is to serve the community in a compassionate manner. This is achieved by determining the cause and manner of a sudden or unexplained death by identifying deceased persons and notifying their next of kin, regardless of where they may live.
It is our purpose to serve the citizens of Cleburne County and surrounding areas with the dignity and respect that their loved ones deserve. We are dedicated to being transparent with families as they cope with loss.
Adam Downs currently holds the position of Cleburne County Coroner, a role he was elected to in 2018. His professional background is rooted in funeral services, having graduated from the Jefferson State Community College Funeral Service Education Program in 2008. This education provided him with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for serving families during difficult times.
With eighteen years of experience in the funeral service industry, Adam has dedicated nearly two decades to assisting families in Cleburne County and its neighboring areas. This extensive experience has allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the needs of the community he serves, further preparing him for his responsibilities as Coroner.
Paul Padgett, Chief Deputy Coroner, has forty three years of Public Service. He retired from the Anniston Army Depot as a Fireman and Paramedic. Paul has dedicated twenty years of service as a Deputy Coroner for Cleburne County.
Clint Cochran, Deputy Coroner, has served twenty one years in Public Service. He serves as Assistant Chief of the Heflin Fire Department.
Sawyer Downs, Deputy Coroner, is a 2024 graduate of Jefferson State Community College Funeral Service Education Program. He has served the past two years as a volunteer Deputy for the Coroners Office.
Troy Busby, Volunteer Deputy, has five years of Public service. He is presently the Captain of the Heflin Fire Department.
