Middlesex Sheriff Named 'Champion of Justice Reform'

The Coalition for Public Safety named Middlesex Sheriff Peter Koutoujian the "Champion of Justice Reform" for the month of February. Koutoujian is just the second "Champion of Justice Reform" selected by the Coalition for Public Safety, a national organization dedicated to enacting smarter, fairer and cost-effective criminal justice policies.

He follows Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, the first to be recognized as part of a year-long initiative profiling "leaders from across the political spectrum who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and perseverance in pushing for smart on crime policies that are cost-effective, responsive, and focused on public safety without coming at the expense of rehabilitation."

"I am deeply honored to be recognized as a 'Champion of Justice Reform' by the Coalition for Public Safety," Koutoujian said in a release. "Our staff and our initiatives are proving smart justice policies can have positive impacts on the lives of those placed with us by the courts, and that better outcomes are possible when we focus our efforts on rehabilitation."

Koutoujian was hailed for his efforts in utilizing medication assisted treatment to address the opioid crisis and health insurance as a re-entry tool for people leaving custody. He was also recognized for establishing Massachusetts' first housing unit for military veterans.

"Law enforcement leaders like Peter Koutoujian are on the front lines of our justice system. Sheriff Koutoujian has worked to develop an innovative approach to corrections and rehabilitation in Massachusetts," Coalition for Public Safety President Steven W. Hawkins said in a statement. "His efforts are a prime example of what local leaders can accomplish when they commit to smart justice policies that prioritize rehabilitation and recognize reducing crime is tied to providing people with opportunities to better their lives."

Image via Middlesex County Sheriff's Office