Pelgro Named Acting Middlesex DA

Gov. Deval Patrick has named First Assistant District Attorney Michael Pelgro as the acting Middlesex County District Attorney to replace Gerry Leone. 

Patrick, who made the announcement in a statement on Friday, plans to announce a permanent appointment to fill out Leone's term next week, according to the Lowell Sun. Voters will elect a new DA in the biennial election in 2014. 

In January, Leone announced he would not seek a third term. In March, Leone announced he would join a private law firm. 

Pelgro, in a statement from Patrick's office, said he is honored to take the job.

“I am very grateful that the Governor has exhibited the confidence in me, to appoint me to such an important position of public trust,” he said. “I am extremely honored to be chosen to help maintain the tradition and legacy of excellence which is the hallmark of the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.”

Leone hailed Patrick's selection, saying Pelgro will be a good leader during a transitional period.

"I commend the Governor for taking a deliberative and contemplative approach to naming my successor, and in doing so making a prudent choice in entrusting the position of Middlesex District Attorney to Michael Pelgro in the interim period until a District Attorney is appointed,” Leone said in a statement. “I have full faith and confidence in Mike’s ability to lead the office through this brief transition period. His depth of experience and knowledge as a lawyer and manager will serve him and the county of Middlesex well in this position.”

Prior to being named acting district attorney, Pelgro spent six years prosecuting violent crimes and has worked as Leone's top deputy since 2012, according to the Lowell Sun. Pelgro also served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for 17 years prosecuting major crimes and drug cases.