Search Begins for New Medical Examiner in North Central Florida!

120 West University Ave, 32601, Gainesville, Florida, USA - The search for a new medical examiner for District 8 is underway, as North Central Florida leaders take steps to establish a locally-managed office. This decision comes in the wake of Alachua County commissioners ending their agreement with the University of Florida, a move aimed at enhancing the autonomy and efficiency of the medical examiner’s office. As reported by Main Street Daily News, the instead of relying on an interim contract, plans are being made to create a dedicated search committee comprising county officials, representatives from the state attorney’s office, the public defender’s office, funeral home directors, and law enforcement leaders.

District 8 covers a variety of counties including Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, and Union. Once the newly formed local committee nominates a candidate, their choice will be forwarded to the Medical Examiners Commission in Tallahassee for final approval from the governor. This local governance aims to improve transparency and responsiveness in the administration of the medical examiner’s duties.

The Role of Dr. Thogmartin

Dr. Jon Thogmartin, the current District 6 medical examiner, has stepped in to ensure continuity in wake of former medical examiner Dr. Tom Coyne’s resignation in April 2024. Thogmartin has been effectively stabilizing operations within the office while gearing up for the upcoming search for a permanent replacement. The assistant county manager, Tommy Crosby, estimates a comprehensive six-month timeline for finding the new medical examiner.

As the process unfolds, it’s important to note that Alachua County is footing the bill for the medical examiner’s office, with contributions from surrounding counties. The structure of the contract remains up for discussion, with State Attorney Brian Kramer pointing out a current shortage of qualified candidates, which gives the county a significant advantage during negotiations. Kramer has mentioned three possible models for managing the office: a nonprofit organization, a private entity, or a county department. Each carries its own set of pros and cons—with the private model being the most economical, while the county department option may lead to increased expenses due to payroll obligations.

Meetings and Next Steps

To facilitate the search, the District Eight Medical Examiner Search Committee has scheduled several meetings, the next of which will take place on June 24, 2024, at 3 p.m. in the Multi-Purpose Room of the Eighth Judicial Circuit Office of the State Attorney, located at 120 West University Ave, Gainesville. The timeline celebrates accountability as committee members approach their responsibilities with a collaborative spirit. The sixth meeting is set for July 29, 2025, at 2 p.m.

In the wake of recent developments, stakeholders are being notified for the upcoming meetings, marking an exciting chapter in a system that operates at the crossroads of county affairs, judicial responsibilities, and law enforcement. Dr. Thogmartin stands ready to lead the way in this important search for our community, ensuring that the next medical examiner chosen will uphold the integrity and effectiveness of the office.

For more details on the committee’s progress, you can refer to the ongoing updates provided by the District Eight Medical Examiner Search Committee and WCJB, which could offer insights into the evolving landscape of the medical examiner’s office in our region.