Preface

This book is designed to be an introduction to the medicolegal death investi-

gation field for students as well as a reference for practicing professionals. The
reason I wanted to write this book was to fill a gap. Previous books have focused
on the forensic pathologist or on the crime scene investigator while discussing
the concepts of medicolegal death investigation. The field has grown signifi-
cantly since its early inception, and I felt it was time for a experienced, board-
certified medicolegal death investigator to write a book.
I have had the privilege to learn from some of the best in the business. From
my mentor, John Kraemer, to the dedicated professionals who volunteer
significant time to the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators
(ABMDI), I have learned so much from so many. I have had numerous oppor-
tunities to discuss the importance of quality medicolegal death investigations
with law enforcement, medical, and homeland security professionals from all
across the country, but the most important aspect of the position for me was
always working one-on-one with families who are thrust unexpectedly into a
situation where their loved one has died and they now must figure out what
comes next. Continuing to improve the science behind what medicolegal death
investigators do and why as well as improving certification of medicolegal
professionals, especially in rural parts of the country, are essential areas of
growth for the profession, but it will never be more important than properly
notifying someone of the death of their loved one.
It is my desire that you the reader find this to be a helpful resource in your
professional pursuits, and I hope you always put the decedents and their loved
ones at the forefront of anything you do.

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