Conducts investigations of homicides, suicides and unexplained natural or accidental deaths;
Interviews witnesses to obtain information useful to the Medical Examiner's office;
Performs observations of the death scene; prepares detailed descriptions including pertinent facts relating to the cause and manner of death;
Examines and takes possession of bodies; directs and supervises their transport to the Medical Examiner's office;
Identifies and establishes evidentiary value of items, to include samples for toxicologic analysis; documents evidence and directs its removal, while safeguarding the quality and chain of evidence;
Obtains and/or coordinates positive identification of bodies through visual personal identification affidavit, x-ray, dental records, descriptive evidence and fingerprint records;
Investigates deaths as required for cremation clearance;
Identifies immediate life-threatening conditions and takes/coordinates action to remove hazards;
Draws blood samples and obtains biological exemplars for evidentiary purposes at the direction of police agencies, courts or its authorized agents for DWI cases and non-testimonial evidence;
Testifies in court; provides expert witness;
Provides information to family and authorized others as to cause of death, manner and circumstance, thus providing preventative counseling, understanding and education;
Independently identifies scope and need for follow up investigation;
Carries out related investigations and interviews as assigned;
Acts as a representative from the office of the Chief Medical Examiner, as directed, in matters of public education and professional liaison;
Recommends release of bodies or the need for autopsies based on preliminary investigation;
Prepares detailed reports and keeps records regarding investigations.
Additional details regarding a Provisional Appointment can be reviewed at:
https://www.suffolkcountyny.gov/Departments/Civil-Service/faqs.