San Joaquin County has officially opened a new Medical Examiner facility.

The new 18,000 square-foot building at the county’s French Camp complex is designed to provide a secure, respectful, and efficient environment that supports advanced forensic operations, offers thoughtful accommodations for families and visitors, and includes flexibility to meet future needs.

“Our staff approach this work with professionalism, compassion, and a deep sense of responsibility to the families we serve,” said Paul Graves, Administrator of the Office of the Medical Examiner.

“Every case represents a loved one, and our mission is to provide answers, preserve dignity, and help bring closure and healing during an incredibly difficult time. This new facility gives our team the space, tools, and support they need to continue delivering these essential services at the highest level.”

San Joaquin County is one of only a handful of California counties that operates a full Medical Examiner’s Office, and the opening of this facility marks an important milestone.

The building includes upgraded radiology technology, significantly improved autopsy space, expanded cooler capacity, and new case management software that will be implemented soon.

“The Medical Examiner plays a vital role on some of the most difficult days in the lives of our residents,” said Board Chair Sonny Dhaliwal.

“The Board is proud to support that mission by investing in a state-of-the-art facility that honors those who have passed, provides the tools needed to help ensure justice, and creates the best possible working environment for our employees.”

Designed for future growth, the facility will serve the County’s expanding population for years to come while offering a welcoming and thoughtfully designed workspace for staff and visitors.

“As we open this new facility, our focus remains on the people we serve during moments of crisis and uncertainty,” said Genevieve Valentine, Director of the Health Care Services Agency.

“This space strengthens our ability to provide timely and compassionate support for families, uphold the highest standards in justice involved cases, and ensure our staff have a safe, respectful, and collaborative environment in which to carry out their vital work.”