Autopsy report: A public record?

The Oconee County coroner, like his colleagues statewide, is following with interest what the state’s high court has to say about an autopsy report. Is it a private medical record to be held from the general public or an investigative document that is subject to the South Carolina Freedom of Information law? The State Supreme Court was scheduled to hear an appeal this morning on behalf of a Sumter newspaper of a decision by the coroner in that county. When he can, Oconee Coroner Karl Addis says he tries to err on the side of openness.