Vermilion Coroner Johnson Will Not Run For 5th Term

After four terms as Vermilion County Coroner, Peggy Johnson says she will not run for re-election in 2016. The Republican Johnson said in a statement that she had decided to retire after “careful consideration” and talks with her family.

Johnson joined the Vermilion County Coroner’s office in 1993 as chief deputy, and was appointed coroner when Lyle Irvin stepped down from the office in 1999. She was elected to her first term in 2000.

Johnson has not endorsed a successor for coroner, saying she wishes all those who run for the office “the best of luck”. Republican Jane McFadden, a Danville Police Commander, and Democrat Steve Cornett, the Tilton Police Chief, have both announced plans to run for the office.