Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner

Office responsible for investigating deaths in Delaware County, Pennsylvania

The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner (DCOME) is a governmental agency responsible for investigating deaths that occur under unusual or suspicious circumstances in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. The office plays a crucial role in determining the cause and manner of deaths, which is essential for legal and public health purposes.

History

The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner was established to provide a systematic approach to death investigations in the county. Prior to its establishment, death investigations were handled by local coroners, which often led to inconsistencies in the determination of causes of death. The office was created to ensure that all deaths are investigated thoroughly and professionally, using modern forensic techniques.

Functions

Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner logo

The primary function of the DCOME is to investigate deaths that are sudden, unexpected, or occur under suspicious circumstances. This includes:

• Performing autopsies to determine the cause of death.
• Collecting and analyzing toxicological samples.
• Working with law enforcement agencies in criminal investigations.
• Providing expert testimony in court cases.
• Maintaining records of all investigations conducted by the office.

Facilities

The DCOME is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that include autopsy suites, laboratories for toxicology and histology, and offices for administrative staff. The office is staffed by board-certified forensic pathologists, forensic investigators, and support personnel who work together to conduct thorough and accurate death investigations.

Staff

The office is led by the Chief Medical Examiner, who is a licensed forensic pathologist. The staff includes:

• Forensic Pathologists: Medical doctors specialized in forensic pathology who perform autopsies and determine causes of death.
• Forensic Investigators: Professionals who gather information from death scenes and assist in the investigation process.
• Administrative Staff: Personnel who manage records, communications, and other administrative tasks.

Community Involvement

The DCOME is committed to serving the community by providing educational outreach programs. These programs aim to inform the public about the role of the medical examiner and the importance of forensic science in the justice system. The office also collaborates with local schools and universities to offer internships and training opportunities for students interested in forensic science careers.

Challenges

The office faces several challenges, including:

• Managing a high volume of cases with limited resources.
• Keeping up with advancements in forensic technology and techniques.
• Addressing the emotional and psychological impact of death investigations on staff.

Related pages

• Forensic pathology
• Medical examiner
• Coroner
• Delaware County, Pennsylvania

Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner building