Lake coroner race goes to Dem newcomer Frey
By Carrie Napoleon Post-Tribune correspondent November 6, 2012 9:26PM
Lake County coroner Merrilee Frey and Lake County commissioner Gerry Scheub look over election results at the American Legion in Merrillville Tuesday evening. | Jeffrey D. Nicholls~Sun-Times Media
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Updated: December 8, 2012 6:21AM
Democratic candidate for coroner Merrilee Frey claimed victory just before 9 p.m. Tuesday in a race where her opponent gained little ground throughout the night.
Frey held steady with about two-thirds of the vote against her GOP challenger, Andy Koultourides of Munster.
“I would like to thank the voters of Lake County for this privilege,” Frey said via news release.
Frey said she intends to be a full-time coroner and will work to improve the professionalism and efficiency of the office.
“While the election for leadership has been determined, the hard work is only beginning.” she said.
Frey, a political newcomer, was all smiles earlier in the evening as she joined Democrats at the American Legion in Merrillville to wait for the results. She said she was excited about the election and the opportunity it presented.
She was appointed by Democrats to finish the term of former Coroner Thomas Philpot after he was found guilty of theft. Her appointment runs until Dec. 31, 2012. Her elected term will begin after that.
Koultourides could not be reached for comment.
