FRANKLIN, Ind. (WISH) – Accusations surrounding Johnson County Coroner Mike Pruitt have led to a mass exodus from his office. 

Five deputy coroners, including Chief Deputy Coroner Derek Wilson, submitted letters of resignation over an investigation involving Pruitt. 

Pruitt is accused of stalking and harassing a 17-year-old high school student, who filed for an order of protection against Pruitt. According to the filing, Pruitt bought the teenager girl beer, sent money to her without her parents’ knowledge, and persistently initiated unwanted interactions.  

Pruitt has not been charged with a crime. 

Deputy Coroner Derrick Hartman’s resignation letter says his decision to leave the Johnson County Coroner’s Office “comes as a direct result of the recent allegations” against Pruitt. 

“I cannot in good conscience continue my service under his administration, as his actions are not aligned with my personal and professional values,” Hartman wrote. “My career and commitment has always been to the protection and well-being of the children and families in our community. It is my hope that in the future, under different leadership, I may have the opportunity to return to the coroner’s office in a capacity where integrity and accountability are upheld.”

Hartman’s feelings are echoed in the other deputy coroners’ resignation letters. 

Jasmine Copeman: “In light of recent circumstances, I feel I am no longer able to continue supporting the office at this time.”

Lydia Griffiths: “I cannot ethically continue to support and work for the office.”

Rebecca Cornejo: “Remaining in this role would risk sending the community a misleading message of support.” 

Pruitt would not participate in an interview and did not address what his ex-staff wrote in their resignation letters, instead sending a statement asserting his office is prepared to carry out its duties despite the “disappointing” news of five resignations. 

“Each individual must make the decision that is best for themselves,” Pruitt said. “Each of those who resigned has served Johnson County with dedication, and I am grateful for their service.”

There are still eight deputy coroners on staff, an administrative deputy coroner, and Pruitt himself. Pruitt said the Coroner’s Office has already received new applications to fill the vacancies.

Because the county coroner is an elected position, neither the Johnson County Commission nor Council have the power to remove him. A felony conviction could start the process to remove Pruitt, but he has not been charged with a crime.

News 8 has been told Pruitt hasn’t been suspended or taken any formal leave of absence.

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