Deputy Cowlitz County coroner sentenced to jail

KELSO — The deputy Cowlitz County coroner who took nearly $12,000 from a dead man’s bank account is serving a 45-day jail sentence.

Jeffrey Wayne Hart, of Castle Rock, pleaded guilty last month to identity theft and official misconduct. He reported to jail Nov. 16. His sentence allows the Castle Rock man to serve part of his time in work release so he can look for a new job.

The Daily News reports Hart, 44, also must pay nearly $12,000 restitution to the family of a 65-year-old Longview man who died in June. Hart went to his apartment for a death investigation and took his debit card.

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