District 1 Medical Examiner Dr. Deanna Oleske and members of her team visited the Walton County Commission this week to request approval of a resolution recognizing Sept. 14 – Sept. 20 as Forensic Science Week.

CFO Melissa Thomason read the resolution, which stated in part:

“The practice of forensic science is a vital public service that plays a critical role in the investigation of crimes, the exoneration of the innocent and the administration of justice…The dedicated employees of the District 1 Medical Examiner’s Office work tirelessly, often under difficult and emotionally challenging conditions to ensure the accurate, timely and compassionate investigation of death occurring under unusual, suspicious or violent circumstances… Their commitment to scientific integrity and excellence helps to support law enforcement agencies, the legal system and grieving families while upholding the highest standards of professionalism.”

(L-R Front) Commissioner Brad Drake, Inv. Lindsey Willis, Associate M.E. Dr. Michael Pagacz, Forensic Anthropologist Dr. Samantha McCrane, Chief M.E. Dr. Deanna A. Oleske, CFO Melissa Thomason, Commission Chair Donna Johns, Director of Operations Dan Scheber, Executive Assistant Jade Maldonado, Morgue Supervisor Nick Washburn, Inv. Niko Boutot and Chief Investigator Chrissy Nieten. Back row: Commissioner Danny Glidewell and Commissioner Dan Curry.

M.E. Operations Director Dan Scheber noted that “It’s, a lot of times, thankless work and dealing with the most unexpected and tragic consequences, and the team does a great job. So, we thank you for the opportunity to be recognized here in front of Walton County for the service this team provides to your citizens.”

Commission Chair Donna Johns thanked Director Scheber, Dr. Orleske and the team for their important work and the Commissioners joined the M.E. team for a photo.