Schoharie County Coroner Timothy Knight has announced that he will not seek re-election to his position this fall.

Knight, the only countywide elected Democrat, took the oath of office in January 2016 after being elected to the position two straight years as a write-in candidate. He has worked under the guidance of Coroner Matthew Coltrain when his services have been requested.

 Although committed to public service, Knight is a full-time college student, freelance journalist, and a member of various civic groups, all of which have resulted in his inability to answer many calls.

"I took the oath of office because it was expected of me," said Mr. Knight, who is 23 years old. "However, I am neither a physician nor a funeral director, and as such, I do not believe it would be proper for me to seek another term in November's election."

Committed to fulfilling his position to the best of his ability through the remainder of 2017, Knight thanked Coroner Coltrain for helping and mentoring him in the position.

On track to graduate from SUNY Cobleskill this May with a Bachelors in Communications, Knight is seeking to further his career in media, but he kept the door open for future runs for public office. "Except Coroner," Knight joked.