Middlesex Sheriff’s Office Wins Awards for Innovative Programs

The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office has been recognized for its innovative programs aimed at aiding inmate rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. At the 2025 Law Enforcement & Corrections Awards Ceremony held at the Massachusetts State House on November 13, 2025, the office received two prestigious awards: the Innovation of the Year Award for its Older Adult Re-Entry (OAR) Unit and the Program of the Year Award for its Family Support Services Unit.

Under the leadership of Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office has launched several initiatives designed to support inmates during and after their time in custody. One notable program is the Medication-assisted Treatment and Directed Opioid Recovery (MATADOR), initiated in 2015. This program provides inmates with drug counseling and training, while also guiding them towards recovery support upon release. The MATADOR program was recognized as one of five national “best practices” by the National Sheriffs’ Association and the National Commission on Correctional Health Care in 2018.

The OAR Unit, which began operations in late 2024 with support from Boston University and UMass Boston, is tailored specifically for incarcerated individuals aged 55 and older. The unit offers a unique environment designed to meet the needs of older inmates, featuring an open layout, raised beds, and age-friendly exercise equipment. Additionally, the unit includes a small library, board games, and various programs aimed at keeping inmates mentally engaged as they prepare for re-entry into society.

The Family Support Services Unit, launched in 2020, is the first of its kind in the nation. This program focuses on enhancing support for the families of incarcerated individuals and has facilitated over 8,000 family interactions. It has gained recognition as a national model for its effectiveness in addressing the needs of families affected by incarceration.

Sheriff Koutoujian expressed pride in the awards, stating, “The officers and civilian staff members who facilitate these vital programs are outstanding professionals who work tirelessly to make our communities better places to live and work.”

The success of these programs highlights the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to innovation and the ongoing effort to improve rehabilitation processes. By developing out-of-the-box strategies, the office continues to foster a positive impact on both inmates and the wider community.

To learn more about the initiatives of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, visit www.middlesexsheriff.org.