Office of Chief Medical Examiner

Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) - New York City

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) of New York City serves a vital, often unseen, role at the intersection of public health, safety, and the justice system. As the central authority responsible for investigating deaths that occur within the five boroughs under specific circumstances defined by law, the OCME provides crucial, impartial scientific findings. These circumstances typically include deaths that are sudden, unexpected, violent, suspicious, or occur without medical attendance, among others [1].

At its core, the OCME is a team of highly skilled forensic scientists, pathologists, toxicologists, anthropologists, and investigators dedicated to determining the cause and manner of death. This process involves meticulous scene investigations, comprehensive external and internal examinations (autopsies), and advanced laboratory testing. The forensic pathology division, staffed by board-certified forensic pathologists, conducts post-mortem examinations to identify injuries, diseases, and other factors contributing to death [2].

Beyond traditional pathology, the OCME operates state-of-the-art forensic laboratories. The toxicology laboratory performs sophisticated analyses to detect and quantify drugs, poisons, and other chemical substances in biological samples, providing critical information in cases involving overdoses, poisonings, or impaired driving [3]. The forensic genetics (DNA) laboratory utilizes cutting-edge technology for human identification and linking individuals to crime scenes, playing an indispensable role in criminal investigations and identifying unknown remains [4]. Other specialized units, such as forensic anthropology and odontology, assist in complex cases involving decomposed or fragmented remains [5].

The findings and reports generated by the OCME are essential for a variety of purposes. They provide closure and answers for grieving families, contribute vital data to public health surveillance regarding trends in mortality (such as drug overdose epidemics or infectious disease outbreaks), and furnish critical evidence for law enforcement and the courts in criminal and civil proceedings [1]. The OCME's work is fundamental to upholding the law and protecting the health and safety of all New Yorkers.

Located with facilities across the city, including its main operations, the OCME functions 24/7, responding to scenes and conducting investigations around the clock. Its commitment to scientific integrity, accuracy, and thoroughness ensures that every death under its jurisdiction is investigated with the highest standards, serving the public good and contributing significantly to the well-being and security of New York City [1].

AUTHORITATIVE SOURCES
[About the OCME]↩
[Forensic Pathology]↩
[Forensic Toxicology]↩
[Forensic Genetics]↩
[Other Forensic Sciences]↩