Cambridge, MA--

James V. DiPaola was, once again, inaugurated as the 29th Middlesex Sheriff, a seat which he has held for the past eight years. The ceremony took place in the prestigious Sanders Theatre at Harvard’s Memorial Hall. More than 500 guests, friends, family, elected and law enforcement officials from around the county gathered to celebrate the occasion and watch as Massachusetts Supreme Court Justice Robert J. Cordy administered the oath of office.

During his remarks, Sheriff DiPaola commended the entire Middlesex Sheriff’s
Office saying, “These men and women are a reflection of the overall enthusiasm of the Middlesex Sheriffs Office. From the newest cadet to the highest ranking superintendent, they all embrace a philosophy of concern, compassion and caring that makes their jobs not only rewarding, but self-fulfilling as well.”

Presiding as the Master of Ceremonies was Medford’s Mayor Michael J. McGlynn. Welcoming comments came from Cambridge Mayor Michael A. Sullivan and Grace Sheibner, Commencement Director, Harvard University. Pat Buckley, of Waltham, opened and closed the ceremony by singing the National Anthem and God Bless America and Robert M. Stephens, Director of Veteran’s Services for Cambridge, delivered the Pledge of Allegiance.


Crediting much of the success of his eight year administration to the men and women who carry out his initiatives, the Sheriff went on to thank: Captain Lela Boykins-Hall, Teacher Paul Heffernan, Captain Leah Lewis, Sergeant Mike Fay and Captain Rick Maloney. Sheriff DiPaola identified specific instances where these individuals excelled. While acknowledging a few individuals, the Sheriff was speaking to the entire rank and file as he stated, “…inspiring others, surpassing expectations, and shaping people’s lives is not just a goal, but an avocation that we aspire to every single day of the year. Our employees are second to none in dedication, commitment and achievement.”

The inauguration was preceded by a colorful procession honor guards from the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, Harvard University Police, MIT Police, the Boston Police Gaelic Column, Boston Gaelic Fire Brigade Pipes and Drums, and the Kevin Barry Irish American Pipes and Drums of Malden.