(1200) Coroner Division

The Coroner Division is an investigative unit responsible for carrying out the statutory duties of the Coroner. Those duties include investigation into the circumstances surrounding all deaths falling within the Coroner’s jurisdiction for the purpose of determining the identity of the deceased, the medical cause of death, the manner of death, and the date and time of death. Investigations are conducted countywide on all homicides, suicides, accidents, suspicious and unexplained deaths. Other duties include notifying the next of kin, safeguarding personal property, collection of evidence, and completion of mandatory records and documents.

• One detective and one deputy sheriff completed death investigation training.
• Proper management and ordering of supplies, including PPE’s and body-bags, we were prepared to respond correctly and efficiently to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
• Our strong relationship with the Santa Clara County ME’s Office provided us with the expert testimony of Chief Medical Examiner Michelle Jorden that helped secure a first-degree murder conviction in case BG17-01203.

• Cost of indigent burials.
• Increased cost of toxicology.

• Construct a modern morgue with adequate capacity.
• Continue relationship with Serenity Transport and Santa Clara County Medical Examiner.