EVERETT — Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers has nominated a new chief medical examiner to replace Dr. J. Matthew Lacy.
The nominee, Dr. J. Daniel Augustine, began serving as an associate medical examiner for Snohomish County earlier this year. Augustine previously worked as an associate medical examiner in for the Los Angeles Medical Examiner-Coroner for 13 years.
He graduated from the University of California-San Diego medical school.
“Dr. Augustine has the right blend of scientific acumen, leadership experience, and good humor to manage this important part of our law and justice system,” Somers said. “He comes highly recommended by his peers and will make a great leader for the vital work being done in the Medical Examiner’s Office.”
If approved by the County Council, Augustine will succeed Lacy, who served four years in the role. The county’s former autopsy doctor is moving into the same position in King County.
The medical examiner role is expected to oversee investigations of all sudden or unexpected deaths in the county.
The position is the county’s highest-paid employee.
Lacy had an annual salary of $304,000, according to recent Snohomish County data.
It was unclear when Augustine’s appointment would come up for a County Council vote.
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