Major Nick Novacich announced his candidacy for Madison County Coroner in 2024 on the Republican ticket, after current Coroner Steve Nonn plans to retire at the end of the year.
“I am thrilled by the opportunity to serve as your next coroner in Madison County,” Novacich stated. “With my extensive years in law enforcement, coupled with a wealth of personal and professional experiences, and a steadfast commitment to continuous improvement through education and training, I believe I am uniquely prepared for this role.”
“Rest assured, the citizens of Madison County, that if given the chance to be your coroner, I will uphold the utmost honor, integrity, and the exceptional standards associated with this esteemed office,” he continued.
Nonn, a Democrat, announced that after nearly 50 years in law enforcement, he plans to retire at the end of this term. Nonn was first elected coroner in 2000.
"I have been fortunate to work with incredibly dedicated and professional police officers and deputy coroners throughout my career," Nonn stated in a press release. "The men and women of the Madison County Coroner’s Office are the absolute best in the field of medicolegal death investigations. I am so very proud and honored to have been their leader. For me, leaving this outstanding group of dedicated investigators will be the hardest part of retiring."
Novacich congratulated Nonn on his retirement.
“We commend him on his professionalism and his dedication to making the office of coroner in Madison County a true law enforcement agency and we wish him the best in his future endeavors,” a press release states.
Novacich has a background in law enforcement with experience in investigative and tactical operations.
He currently serves as commander of the Cross-River Crime Task Force, which is made up of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers in an effort to stop crime in Madison County coming from across the Mississippi River.
His law enforcement career spans over 23 years with the Granite City Police Department. He has served as a Police Supervisor since 2009.
Novacich is a founding member of the Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS) Region 8 Special Response Team for Weapons of Mass Destruction. He served as assistant team leader and then later as team leader from 2005 to 2013.
He also served as a homicide investigator with the Major Case Squad of Greater St. Louis since 2006 and has been appointed deputy-commander since 2017.
His service extends beyond the local community through his participation in Task Force Illinois during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, where he was involved in disaster response.
Novacich graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy, Class #272, in 2018. He earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Lindenwood University and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology, with an emphasis in Criminal Justice, from McKendree University.
He has also participated in training courses in Violent Criminal Apprehension with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Affairs Functions, Interview Techniques for Homicide Investigations, Weapons of Mass Destruction Advanced Tactical Operations, Advanced Hostage Rescue, and Hazardous Materials Operations.
According to a press release, Novacich’s experience, leadership skills and commitment to public service will allow him “to bring his skills and expertise to the office of the Madison County Coroner, ensuring the continued well-being and safety that our community has come to know from this highly professional office.”
Novacich is endorsed by the Southern Illinois Police Chiefs Association (SIPCA), which he described as “a platform for collaborative efforts, staying up-to-date on cutting-edge law enforcement trends and technologies, and encouraging joint initiatives to address common challenges, enhance public safety, and strengthen community relations.”
Retired Chief Deputy Coroner Roger Smith previously announced that he will also run on the Republican ticket for Madison County Coroner in the March 2024 Primary Election, with Former Congressman John Shimkus chairing his campaign.
“I consider the position of coroner to be a calling, not a job,” Smith stated.
Smith worked in the Madison County coroner’s office for 32 years, serving as chief deputy coroner for the last 11 years before retiring in 2021.