Released: October 2, 2024
The Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner (OME) has been recognized as one of only six offices nationwide to receive the FY2024 Strengthening the Medical Examiner-Coroner System Program grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance.
This $95,054 grant is a significant achievement for Delaware County, marking the first time the OME has received an award from the Department of Justice.
Jeffrey Lange, Deputy Chief Medical Examiner, stated, “This grant is a critical first step toward achieving our goal of national accreditation from the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME). We have many more hurdles to overcome to obtain accreditation, but we are determined to reach those goals for the community. Accreditation represents the gold standard in forensic and medicolegal investigations, and securing it will significantly enhance the quality and credibility of the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner.”
Funds from the grant will be used to purchase essential equipment and resources, including state-of-the-art microscopes, a carbon monoxide tester for examining decedents, specialized turnout gear for investigators entering hazardous environments such as arson scenes, and an upgraded case management system to streamline operations. These tools will be instrumental in ensuring the OME operates at the highest standards of professionalism and efficiency.
“We’re extremely proud to have been selected for this grant,” said Dr. Albert Chu, Chief Medical Examiner. “It reflects our commitment to improving services and ensuring we have the necessary resources to achieve accreditation and better serve the community.”
While NAME accreditation remains a long-term goal, the DOJ grant is a pivotal step in enhancing the Delaware County Office of the Medical Examiner’s capabilities and improving service delivery. Delaware County is committed to using this opportunity to strengthen the OME and ensure it is equipped to meet the complex needs of the community.