09/22/2026
Day 3 of National Forensic Science Week:
Meet Coroner Laura Kneece,
For more than 23 years, Coroner Laura Kneece has made serving others the heart of her career.
Her journey began in law enforcement with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, where she served as a Patrol Deputy, School Resource Officer, and Crime Scene Investigator. Her passion for forensic science and helping families eventually led her into death investigation, where she found a calling in serving people during some of life’s most difficult moments.
In 2017, Laura was elected to serve as the Coroner of Newberry County. Since then, she has continued to learn, grow, and work to make the Coroner’s Office a place where families can find answers, compassion, and support when they need it most.
Coroner Laura Kneece has obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration, a national certification through the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigation (F-ABMDI), and a second professional certification as a Certified Medicolegal Death Investigator (C-MDI) through the Death Investigation Training Academy.
While her education, certifications, and professional accomplishments are an important part of her story, Laura believes that serving people is at the center of it all. Whether working with a family, collaborating with first responders, or supporting the Newberry community, she strives to lead with compassion, respect, and understanding.
Outside of the office, Laura enjoys life in Prosperity with her husband of 13 years, Kyle, their four children, Carlie, Tye, Cole, and Karoline, and their five beloved fur babies, Lizzie, Spots, Louie, Annie, and Ash.
After more than two decades of service, Laura remains grateful for the opportunity to serve the community she calls home.
For Coroner Kneece, this job is about people honoring those who have passed, supporting the families left behind, and being there for Newberry County when they need us most.
