OCME: Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center

by Bruce Goldfarb

Go behind the scenes inside the nation's preeminent Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where good people fight the good fight amid the tragedies and absurdities of our age

Perfect for fans of Michael Lewis and David Simon (Homicide, The Corner, The Wire, We Own This City)

Real life is different from what gets depicted on procedural crime dramas.

Equipped with a journalist’s eye, a paramedic’s experience and a sardonic wit, Bruce Goldfarb spent ten years with Maryland’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where every sudden or unattended death in the state is scrutinized.

Touching on numerous scandals, including Derek Chauvin's trial for the murder of George Floyd and the tragic killing in police custody of Freddie Gray, Goldfarb pulls back the curtain on a pioneer institution in crisis.

Medical examiners and the investigators and technicians who support them play vital roles in the justice and public health systems of every American community. During Goldfarb’s time with the Maryland OCME, opioid-related deaths contributed to a significant increase in their workload. Faced with a chronic shortage of qualified experts and inadequate funding, their important and fascinating work has become more challenging than most people could ever imagine.

The public gets a skewed view of the relationship between police and medical examiners from procedural crime dramas, Bruce Goldfarb writes of his work inside one of America's most storied forensic centers. We aren’t on the same team . . . We aren’t on any team. The medical examiner’s sole duty is to the deceased person. We speak for the dead.

Genres: Nonfiction, Medical, True Crime, Science, Crime, Audiobook, Death

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 21, 2023

About the author

Bruce Goldfarb has contributed to Baltimore magazine, Maryland magazine, Washington Post, USA Today, American Health, American Archaeology, and many other publications. He has written or edited seven medical reference book and textbooks, and publishes welcometobaltimorehon.com. Goldfarb's first work of popular nonfiction, 18 TINY DEATHS; THE UNTOLD STORY OF FRANCES GLESSNER LEE AND THE INVENTION OF MODERN FORENSICS will be published by Sourcebooks in February, 2020.

Reviews

[Grace Convertino · Rating 3 out of 5]

“OCME: Life in America’s Top Forensic Center” is an insider looks at the workings of the entire forensic system in Maryland, a premiere OCME. This work about the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of Maryland (OCME) is written by Bruce Goldfarb, who was the executive assistant to the Chief Medical Examiner. He was trained as a paramedic and journalist, and his experience with both led Goldfarb to his position at the OCME. There is a strict system of checks and balances for every examination, and the Chief ME does not perform any autopsies to be able to supervise and scrutinize all. It also talked about the lack of essential funding, the need for more personnel, the challenge of being certified by the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) while being overworked (there are limits to the amount of autopsies each ME can complete per calendar year along with other stringent qualifications) and understaffed. Dr. David Fowler served there for thirty-five years and made Maryland’s OCME a stellar one, considered the “gold standard” and training ground for many. Unfortunately the severe opioid and opioid-like crisis, with its overdoses, headline deaths at the hands of police officers or in their custody, and crime scene in the state made a very busy ME’s office into one that became a sad commentary about the dwindling forensic personnel available, graduate students not choosing the medical field of pathology, and the lack of bureaucratic assistance. Fowler testified on behalf of Derek Chauvin, saying George Floyd’s manner of death was undetermined, calling that conclusion “intellectually honest” which, in fact, undermined other experts. Goldfarb states “The blowback from Fowler’s testimony was swift and fierce.”

This is an interesting look into the world of forensics told as it is, as opposed to the neat and tidy depictions ingrained in many books and television programs. Not only are there details about the inner workings of the facility, but the history of forensic medicine in Maryland is told in great detail, including photos illustrating the locations and description of the buildings themselves. The dignity and privacy of the decedent is protected and sacred, and the OCME is an independent agency, not affiliated with the police department. To quote Goldfarb: “We aren’t on the same team . . . We aren’t on any team. The medical examiner’s sole duty is to the deceased person. We speak for the dead.” That was eye-opening for me, knowing what little I did about forensics from novels and television. The writing seemed to be broken up into smaller vignettes, almost staccato at times, but upon reading the end notes I realized much of the writing came from news/ literary articles written by Goldfarb and others. While I’ve worked in customer service, the author gave the position a whole new meaning handling the things with which he was tasked. I thoroughly enjoyed the author’s wit and sarcasm, and thought he wrote very effectively. If you are a history buff, or want to know more about/are a fan of the State of Maryland or the process of real forensics, this is a great book for you!

I’d like to thank Edelweiss, Bruce Goldfarb, and Steerforth Press for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[Jeanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion. This was my first book by this author and I was very excited not only to read his writing style but about the OCME itself. I have always had a fascination with forensics and pathology and was so intrigued with the blurb about this one for sure. Unfortunately I was a little disappointed with the outcome. The book although in chronological order of how it was played out was thrown together like an endless dialogue in someone’s head. Written out in the form of diary entries where here’s a thought and then I thought of this and wrote it down then this little tidbit. Very odd in the end really. I did enjoy the insight of the jobs inside the building but honestly just kept wanting for more stories of the cases that came thru. There were a couple of places where I thought we were going to get into some good nitty gritty and then it just stopped and went onto the next thought process. Working in the medical field I do unfortunately feel the lose of funds for the workers doing the job and the job becoming harder and harder to complete properly. All in all if you love this subject you will enjoy this book.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked Bruce Goldfarb's previous book, "18 Tiny Deaths". I figured this book won't disappoint and it sure didn't. The book gives a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the OCME. The history of the institution shows a top of the line office but as with everything to do with budget cuts and bad management, this much needed institution is failing.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in forensics.

[Amie's Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Exquisitely readable and surprisingly relatable, OCME Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center is a book I read in a single sitting. Despite needing sleep, I was unable to put this book down.

Author Bruce Goldfarb brings readers along with him for a detailed look at what life is really like in the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Think this book would be too macabre to read? You would be massively wrong. OCME does NOT rely on the glorification of blood and guts to sell books. It is so interesting that it simply doesn't need to.

Full of eye-opening facts and fascinating details, OCME will open the eyes of its readers to the ridiculousness of red tape in any and every bureaucracy; even the bureaucracy of death itself.

Although this might not have been the author’s goal, he has nevertheless succeeded in bringing to light the horrific statistics surrounding many of the most concerning ways in which people have died over the past decade. Granted, the statistics used in this book only represent the state of Maryland, however, these are the same issues faced by most other states and cities in North America. For example, the author highlights the alarming number of people who have died due to the Opiod Epidemic.

This book will open people's eyes to the importance of having skilled and highly trained medical examiners. The result of this will hopefully be that both taxpayers and politicians will allocate more money in their budgets to the OCME in their respective jurisdictions.

Some of the most shocking, and frankly disturbing, information contained within the pages of this book are the following facts:

[ ] "About half of the US population is under the jurisdiction of coroners and lacks access to qualified forensic pathologists..."

[ ] "In states including Wisconsin, Missouri, Indiana, Illinois, New York, Idaho, Georgia, Colorado, and Nevada, elected coroners aren’t required to have ANY medical or legal training before they can certify the cause and manner of death."

[ ] In Missouri, to serve as a coroner, the requirements are minimal. You only have to be 21 or older, and have to get more votes than anyone else. There is absolutely NO MEDICAL KNOWLEDGE NECESSARY. That is ridiculous. "If a person is elected coroner, they can crack open a beer and start signing death certificates."

I rate OCME as 5 out of 5 Stars
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ and I recommend this book not only to fans of True Crime, but also to everyone who wants to be more informed about Public Health, Politics, and/or general nonfiction enthusiasts.

Reading this book and spreading the word about it could be the difference between a murderer being caught or going free. It just might be the reason a killer is caught and the lives of future potential victims are saved.

*** Thank you to #NetGalley and #Edelweiss for providing me with a free advance review copy of this book. ***

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[Tami · Rating 4 out of 5]

OCME (Office of the Chief Medical Examiner) in Maryland is one of the most respected facilities. They have a state of the art technology system, custom autopsy rooms, filtration system, and the ability to convert their parking garage into an emergency storage facility. I found this book quite interesting. I had no idea what went on behind the scenes. It's not a book about the process of autopsies, but it's more of the day to day operations. You find out that the atmosphere is very political, not only with the government itself but also with the media and within its own walls. A few interesting cases were discussed to show the effects on family and the political side. Due to a new CME and the result of lacking experienced examiners, the image of the OCME decreased greatly with over 250 backlogged decedents. The facility is slowly working its way back to the top now, but it will take a long time to get back to where they were. I would have given it 5 stars, but it had the longest prologue I've ever seen.

[Katherina Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a well-written and interesting book about Bruce Goldfarb’s time spent as a medical examiner in Maryland. I generally read fiction but having been in the medical field for most of my life, I have often wondered about the other side…..when people’s lives aren’t saved. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. This opinion is my own.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book clearly explains what it's like to work in the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore Maryland, written by a journalist who worked there. He explains the history of that Office, a little bit about the city/surroundings of Baltimore, the layout of the building, the job descriptions/occupations within, the hustle/bustle....& other facets of life & work there. He shines a light on various aspects of Forensic Medicine, & not just in Maryland.... Very interesting non-fiction!
I received a complimentary e-ARC from publisher Steelforth Press via NetGalley in return for reading it & posting my own fair/honest review.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

OCME: Life in America’s Top Forensic Medical Center was an entertaining and quick read. OCME gives an insider look into the everyday lives of medical examiners and investigators at one of the busiest offices in the nation. Goldfarb expertly weaves in current ripped from the headlines cases without it seeming forced; he highlights issues facing his profession and illustrates for the reader what a job in forensics truly looks like. After reading this book, I cannot wait to read Goldfarb’s previous “18 Tiny Deaths.”

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and author Bruce Goldfarb for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Courtney R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"OCME: Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center" by Bruce Goldfarb provides a riveting and eye-opening look into the inner workings of one of America's most renowned forensic medical centers. Goldfarb's narrative prowess, coupled with his extensive knowledge of the subject matter, makes for a compelling and enlightening read.

The author's ability to balance meticulous attention to detail with a captivating storytelling style is commendable. He skillfully navigates the complex world of forensic medicine, offering readers a behind-the-scenes view of the investigations and cases that unfold within the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.

Goldfarb's portrayal of the dedicated professionals working in the OCME is both respectful and humanizing. He brings to life the individuals who tirelessly work to uncover the truth behind mysterious and often tragic deaths. Their expertise, compassion, and commitment to justice shine through the pages, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

The book's structure is well-organized, allowing readers to follow the progression of cases and gain a comprehensive understanding of the OCME's operations. Goldfarb strikes a balance between technical explanations and engaging anecdotes, ensuring that the material remains accessible to both experts in the field and curious lay readers.

Furthermore, "OCME" serves as a testament to the vital role that forensic medicine plays in our society. Goldfarb sheds light on the impact of the OCME's work not only in terms of solving crimes but also in providing closure and justice for families and communities affected by loss.

In conclusion, "OCME: Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center" is a masterfully written and profoundly insightful book that offers a rare glimpse into the world of forensic medicine. Bruce Goldfarb's expertise and storytelling prowess combine to create a compelling narrative that will leave readers both fascinated and deeply appreciative of the crucial work performed by those in the field of forensic medicine. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, justice, and human compassion.

I was provided an advanced copy of this book by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Chelsea Littleton-Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

OCME - Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center' by Bruce Goldfarb is a riveting and eye-opening exploration of the inner workings of Maryland's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Goldfarb, armed with his journalist's eye, paramedic's experience, and sardonic wit, takes readers on an unforgettable journey behind the scenes of one of the nation's most vital institutions.

In this gripping account, Goldfarb provides an insider's view of the OCME, where every sudden or unattended death in the state is meticulously examined. He sheds light on numerous high-profile cases, including the trial of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Floyd and the tragic death of Freddie Gray in police custody. Through his narrative, Goldfarb unveils the challenges, tragedies, and absurdities that the OCME staff faces in their pursuit of justice and public health.

What sets this book apart is its unflinching portrayal of the medical examiners and the dedicated professionals who support them. Goldfarb paints a vivid picture of the tireless work they do, often in the face of overwhelming caseloads, chronic shortages of experts, and inadequate funding. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role these individuals play in our justice system and the health of our communities.

Goldfarb's writing is both informative and engaging, drawing readers into the world of forensic medicine with a level of detail and insight that is both impressive and accessible. He challenges the skewed perspective often presented in procedural crime dramas, emphasising that medical examiners are not aligned with the police but are solely committed to speaking for the deceased.

'OCME - Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center' is an eye-opening and brilliantly written book that provides an essential glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of those who work tirelessly to uncover the truth behind unexplained deaths. Bruce Goldfarb's ability to capture the complexities and nuances of this critical profession is truly commendable.

[Glenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an insider’s account of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) in Baltimore. The author, Bruce Goldfarb, served as the agency’s public information officer provides a look at the realities of how the office works, death investigations, and the inner workings of one of the busiest medical examiner offices in the country.

Goldfarb doesn’t glamorize the work or indulge in sensationalism though he does name drop a few well known cases. He provides a different perspective than what is often seen in CSI and other shows of the relentless pace, bureaucratic challenges, and emotional toll of handling thousands of cases each year. He balances technical details with human stories, making the book engaging for both forensic science enthusiasts and general readers. If you're looking for more of a true crime bent, you wont' really find that here. His writing is straightforward and engaging, though at times repetitive and the the volume of information—especially regarding office politics and administrative struggles—can make it read a bit slow.

While OCME provides an insiders perspective on the field of forensic pathology, it doesn't dive into technical detail that might be more interesting to forensic science junkies nor does it get into personal storytelling that might make it resonate emotionally.

Overall, Goldfarb delivers an insightful and respectful account of the work and the profession. The book shines in its ability to highlight both the importance and the difficulties of death investigation while avoiding unnecessary dramatization

[Big Otter Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

A riveting, behind the scenes look at Maryland's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME). Goldfarb brings a unique take on the genre as a former paramedic who becomes the executive assistant to the chief medical examiner and public information officer for OCME. The book is part historical, with an exhaustive look at how OCME was formed then grew and became the gold standard in forensics; these parts were interesting. The bulk of the book is a stream of consciousness mishmash that jumps from topic to topic with no real connection. I felt as if he had kept little notes over the years of interesting or weird things that went on and then, during COVID, finally had time to slam it all together into a book. I don't mean that to malign the book-it was good. If you are a fan of forensic shows like CSI or Quincy, M.E. then this book is right up your alley. There is a ton of science and death investigation in here. There are also looks at high-profile cases that put OCME in the middle of family/press/police and how they navigate the drama by remaining true to speaking for the dead. Well worth a read if you can roll with Goldfarb's style. Three stars, I was given a copy of the book and this is my own opinion.

[Laurann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a mystery/true crime fanatic. It is the genre of book that I am reading most often. This book opens up behind the scenes at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore. Their office investigates every unattended or sudden death in Maryland. It is told from the point of view of their "PR" person, Bruce Goldfarb. He gives a brief history of the office and then talks about his experiences working in the OMCE. He discusses the death of Freddie Gray and other cases that caused numerous phone calls from journalists and sleuths.
Overall, I enjoyed the book. When you read about the increasing overdoses that begin to plague their offices it reminds you that it is the same everywhere in America. Opioid ODs have become more common across the country. He discusses how their offices started to fall behind when the budget shrank but deaths in the state rose. A strong book for those who like to know what happens behind the curtain without a specific case being discussed throughout the entire book. Nice snippets to read in short chunks. I enjoyed this book.

[Mandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn’t find this as interesting as I expected to, nor as interesting as many other reviewers have found it. There’s a core of a fascinating account here but I found it too detailed on occasion, not least in the early part of the book when going through the inception and history of OCME, including all the costing and so on. OCME, or the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, is the office charged with examining every sudden or unattended death in Maryland. Author Goldfarb worked there for 10 years so knows in depth what he’s describing. Work in the department has become more and more challenging over the years with an exponential increase in opioid related deaths and a decrease in staffing and funding. The nitty gritty of forensic work I did enjoy but sometimes it all felt a bit repetitive and perhaps a more concise and tighter narrative would have kept my attention more effectively. Nevertheless, I feel that it’s an important book in its highlighting of the deficiencies of the system and I hope that those with any say in the matter will be taking note.

[Kimberly Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

OCME by Bruce Goldfarb allows the reader an inside view of what occurs inside the office of Maryland’s Office of Chief Medical Examiner. This book provided an extensive view of what a medical examiner does and how it becomes involved in investigations and autopsies. There were so many interesting situations and facts presented; including the large number of deaths that are due to drug use. Some high profile cases are showcased in this book such as, the Freddie Gray case. It was interesting to me to discover that this office was affected by inadequate funding and shortages similar to many other public service positions. With the vital need for this office, I was surprised to discover how it was significantly affected. Due to his time as a journalist and paramedic, Bruce Goldfarb knocked this book out of the park with his writing style and extensive background knowledge. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in true crime. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance review copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Susanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the author, Steerforth Press and NetGalley, for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book provides insight into the author's work - as a non-medical professional - in the Office of the Chief Medical Examinar (OCME) in Maryland. Unfortunately, I felt the first half of the book got very bogged down in way too much minutiae about the inception and history of the OCME, and getting through that was a real slog. Following the developments in our lifetime, e.g. the huge challenges of rising death rates, accompanied by decreases in staffing and funding was interesting, and highlights the deficiencies of a system that everyone takes for granted - and is urgently needed - but is almost impossible to keep going under the present circumstances. I found the insight into the impartiality of the ME, particularly in highly politicized cases, very interesting. Overall, this is a read that I gleaned some interesting tidbits from, but not really what I expected.

[Kathe · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Life in America's Top Forensic Medical Center" pretty well summarizes this book. Whether a reader will be pleased with this title depends on why they want to read it. It is not a tell-all, deep-dive into celebrity or notorious deaths and their investigations or autopsies, although some are mentioned. This book is the author's lived experience working at the OCME.
I personally have been reading more books on this general subject since losing my child. Knowing some of what my child experienced post-mortem at the medical examiner's office somehow helps me, although I can't say why. I have personally attended autopsies and am familiar with what takes place, but there would have been more to know beyond that.
This book will help a reader who is seeking to understand what takes place at a medical examiner's office, and the reasons behind the answers they receive to questions they presented to the medical examiner following a loved one's death.

[Sunny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picked up the book- because of 'forensic medical' in the subtitle. Started reading without knowing what 'OCME' stands for.

I found the style of narration odd- the author jumps from history of the Maryland OCME, to his casual conversation with his college, to an investigation case in Baltimore. However, the odd mix of his tales give a real sense of what's it like working at Office of Chief Medical Examiners. Not just their main role of determining the cause and manner of death, but also how they are involved in justice system, and people who faced with troubling death of their loved ones. It was disheartening to see how the 'top' performing OCME of Maryland struggles with budget cut, increase workload due to increasing opioid crisis and difficult cases of 'in-custody' death cases (seemed to be piling in Baltimore).

[Sharon Shoemaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, as a former Marylander and a science geek with a love of forensics. I have had the honor of touring the OCME. Learning the history of the OCME of Maryland was interesting to me. It is sad to see the that the field of forensic pathology has become such a problem in finding qualified people. In today’s society it is truly a needed field.

On another note, it was nice to see my friend Brian Bregman mentioned. I worked with him and had known him for over 20 years. A truly loved and missed friend. I would see him on calls, as we both were in the fire department or he would be the FI on my death scene. We both started out working for a private ambulance company together. Even then I wanted to be a FI for Maryland, unfortunately a broken back ended that dream.

I do recommend reading this book to get a great idea on how the medical examiner’s office works.

[Kathy Stay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always been fascinated by this topic. I’ve always wanted to know why someone died. (Under suspicious circumstances). Okay, call me curious, call me morbid, whatever! I don’t care!

Years ago I worked as an ER ADMITTING CLERK. I saw many sad cases. (Maybe that’s where it started, or MAYBE, it started when I was a young child watching QUINCY on TV at night with my family.

Sorry, no spoilers about the book from me. This was just an excellent book about a Medical Examiner and the workings of an M.E.’S office, and about How someone can work as a Death Investigator, as well.
(THINK, Joseph Scott Morgan, of Body Bags fame, a great Podcast! Check it out! Wish I could take one of his classes at Jacksonville State!)

Anyway, listened to this on Audible. It was enjoyable! I highly recommend it!

[Emma Oakden · Rating 5 out of 5]

*** I was given this books by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

OCME is an intriguing look into life behind the scenes at the Baltimore OCME, and is one I could not put down! The writing itself is splendid - it has a great flow to it, with touches of humour that make what could be a heavy read, a light, easy read. It's incredibly informative and I learnt a lot from this book, that I haven't learnt in any of the forensics related books I've read to date. What makes this book different, is that it isn't written from the point of view of a medical examiner; the focus is on the day to day running of the OCME and all the politics that go on behind the scene. Bruce Goldferb has done an incredible job with this book, it is a must read for anyone with an interest in forensics..

[Koren · Rating 3 out of 5]

OCME is short for the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The author worked there for 10 years in the Maryland office. The law in Maryland states that any sudden or unattended death must go through there office but they do not have enough staff to make this work. Coupled with the sharp increase in deaths from opioids makes the situation worse. In the beginning, I almost didn't stick with this book. I wasn't really interested in the history of the building or the layout of the building. When this book is at its best is when he talks about specific cases, but he usually doesnt go into detail about them. The back cover states that he touches on numerous scandals such as the George Floyd case, which I was interested in, but it really was just a page or two.

[Camille · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting look inside the inner workings of Baltimore's Office of the Chief Examiner. However, I felt like some of the author's dealings with the public were described in a tone-deaf, dismissive, and paternalistic manner. The book opens with an interaction between the author and a grieving family member, in which the author's response to the family's questions is "Lady, I'm just trying to go home." The author had a lot of empathy for the real impacts of understaffing, but not as much for family members and the media who were seeking information on active cases. Finally, the author's mention of his request for the case file on two very high profile cases seemed more like a chance to brag. Why include this, if you can't share what you read in the case file?

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an insightful book of what happens behind the doors of OCME based in Maryland USA. It details the history of the institution, and how budget cuts are having a detrimental effect on their investigations.

The author gives a well noted account of the jobs inside OCME. I would have preferred to read more about the cases that came in, more than the details of unrealistic budgets and how the system is failing OCME. However, I do understand that this needs to be highlighted and is an important part of this book.

Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in return of an honest, unbiased review.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was interested in the history of medical examiners and coroners in the beginning chapters, but it was the work of the pathologists, medical examiners, and the rise in the opioid epidemic and the way it has debilitated our systems. I had worked ER, acute care, long term care, trauma rehab, and as an RN in a county jail, so I am not without understanding of the problems (especially BUDGET CUTS). Milwaukee isn't Baltimore, but our ME reached the point of no return with an insane caseload and just walked away.
This book was very well written, especially for those of us who are close to the line
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Steerforth Press via NetGalley. Thank you!

[Barbara (Booslittlehausofhorror) Drake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderfully written! An informative look into a very unknown and profoundly important field of work. Very through and relatable. Having a strong science background I have always been fascinated about what happens to bodies post- Mortem. The scientific process behind it is amazing. The care and professionalism shown by the writer was uncanny and he garnered so much respect for the dead and their privacy and autonomy. I would highly recommend this book and hope it garners more interest in the forensic pathology field!

[jmilesc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lots of information about the structure of the roles and logistics of a states Medical Examiner- which was interesting. Perhaps would have been more interesting if I were a Maryland resident. As a Minnesota residence, I did find the references to the Derek Chauvin’s trial interesting. Painfully so.
Overall- this to me was an overview of what a Medical Examiner’s office does. I have assumed that an ME’s office was working with police or other agency, but not so- they are completely independent, at least I’m Maryland. Some stories, not many. Interesting, glad I read it- learned stuff.

[Artie Monahan · Rating 5 out of 5]

an eye opening examination of a critical investigative unit

As a former NYPD DETECTIVE and Detective supervisor I am aware of the importance of Forensic Investigators and Medical Examiners. New York City is blessed with the best Medical Examiner’s Office. Investigators and Doctors who strive to bring justice for the dead.
OCME seems to be operating to bring justice for the dead but unfortunately those outside the system don’t hold that same view and deprive OCME the resources to accomplish its mission.

[Georgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an interesting insight into Maryland's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. It challenged narratives created by police and crime dramas and I found the crisis OCME went through during COVID-19 particularly interesting. At points the author repeated statistics in multiple chapters, which could be repetitive, but this did not detract from what was an interesting read.

Thank you to the publisher, author and NetGalley for sending me this arc.

[Victoria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Steerforth and Netgalley for providing this nonfiction ARC about the Maryland Chief Medical Examiner’s Office in Baltimore. I enjoyed learning the backstory of the organization (which is currently in the news for various negative reasons). Overall, the book ended up being quite sad as it tells the story of a once stellar and proud organization that was entirely decimated by a combination of the opioid crisis, government cost-cutting and short-sightedness, and finally poor leadership.