Leadership Changes in Middlesex Sheriff's Office

Middlesex Sheriff Peter Koutoujian appointed new leaders to two top positions in the Middlesex Sheriff's Office, according to an announcement sent by the sheriff's office Tuesday.

Scott Brazis will take over as special sheriff, which is essentially the second in command, according to the sheriff's office. In Massachusetts, special sheriffs take over the office if the sheriff is sick, absent or otherwise unable to do the job.

Brazis will replace Patrick Murphy, who is retiring Friday after 33 years with the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office.

Brazis has worked in Middlesex Sheriff's Office for 28 years, starting as a corrections officer and, most recently, serving as superintendent of the Middlesex Jail in Cambridge, according to the announcement.

Now, John Costello will take over that role from Brazis, the announcement says.

Costello has worked for the sheriff's office for 26 years, starting as a corrections officer and currently serving as assistant superintendent for operations at the Middlesex House of Correction in Billerica.

In a statement about Murphy's retirement, Koutoujian said the outgoing special sheriff has "served with honor, fairness and integrity during his tenure at this institution."

The new leadership team "will have the seasoned experience we need to lead this office through the challenges that lie ahead," Koutoujian said.