Opioid Medicolegal Death Investigator to specialize in drug related deaths and use statistical data collected to assist with countywide preventative and educational projects

The York County Coroner’s Office is experiencing longer turnaround times on cases related to opioid deaths and an increase need for autopsies, toxicology testing, and evidence collection and inventory due to the rise in drug-related deaths. The Coroner’s Office proposes to hire a Medicolegal Death Investigator that will specialize in drug related deaths. This individual will be responsible for assisting with scene investigation, autopsies, consults, laboratory specimen collection, evidence collection and inventory, and documentation related to each case including statistical information used to assist surrounding agencies with prevention measures to help combat the opioid epidemic. The individual will be responsible for implementing a Fatal Overdose Review Team that will include law enforcement agencies, the Drug Enforcement Unit, first responders, opioid treatment facilities and toxicologist to conduct case assessments for preventative projects. This individual will be the point of contact and work closely with toxicologist and labs to keep track of all reports and analysis. Having a Medicolegal Death Investigator specializing in drug related deaths will improve the quality and timeliness of opioid case investigations. CA/NCF