Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: 4/5ths
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Robert Foucrault, Coroner
Subject: Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program grant from the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance for re-accreditation with the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners
RECOMMENDATION:
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Recommendation to:
A) Adopt a resolution accepting a Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program grant from the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance in the amount of $12,744 for re-accreditation with the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners during the period of October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2027; and
B) Approve an Appropriation Transfer Request (ATR) in the amount of $12,744 in grant funds from the Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance to the Coroner's Office FY 2024-25 budget for the Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program.
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BACKGROUND:
The Medical Examiner-Coroner system in the United States struggles with inconsistent death investigation practices, system variability, shortages of qualified staff performing investigations and related duties, and a lack of available funding. These systemic issues potentially impact the criminal justice system by compromising the investigation, prosecution, and prevention of criminal behavior associated with suspicious deaths.
As a result, the National Commission on Forensic Science recommended that, by 2020, all Medical Examiner-Coroner offices be accredited according to a national or international standard. Such accreditation provides quality assurance through the development and standardization of industry best practices related to staffing, equipment, training, facilities maintenance, and forensic specialties.
The San Mateo County Coroner's Offi...
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