He is responsible for execution of all process, writs, warrants, capiases and other papers issued by state and County courts, and responsible for maintaining law and order and for the apprehension of violators of the law. The Sheriff's Detention Department provides housing, care, security, transportation and rehabilitative programs for all inmates detained within the Hillsborough County jail system. The Medical Examiner Department is responsible for the medical investigation of suspicious, unexpected, unusual and violent deaths occurring in the County. Investigations usually include autopsies, which are done pursuant to statute. Opinion testimony is rendered in courtroom proceedings by the medical examiners, who are physicians specializing in forensic pathology.
Autopsy reports are available from the department.
Death certificates completed by medical examiners are available from the Vital Records section of the State Health Department.