Sheriff Peter Koutoujian has worked as a prosecutor, legislator, professor, and law enforcement leader on the leading issues in public safety and public health throughout his career. His work has earned him local and national recognition, including being named the national Sheriff of the Year for 2023 by the Major County Sheriffs of America. Sheriff Koutoujian holds a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, a law degree from the New England School of Law, and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Bridgewater State University. He maintains his academic involvement by continuing to teach criminal justice and leadership courses at several New England area institutions. As sheriff, his use of specialty units has reimagined the correctional landscape. By targeting treatment towards unique populations such as young adults and military veterans, these programs have directly and substantially reduced recidivism in their participants.