Governor Deval Patrick today appointed State Rep. Peter Koutoujian as the interim Middlesex County Sheriff. 

"As a former assistant district attorney and relentless advocate for both crime victims and social services, Peter brings a wealth of expertise, passion and know-how to this critical position," Patrick said. "I look forward to working with him to strengthen our re-entry programs and reduce youth violence." 

Koutoujian, a Waltham native and Democrat, will replace the late James DiPaola, who killed himself late last year. An election to fill the rest of DiPaola's term will be held in November 2012. 

Koutoujian, 49, said he looks forward to the job.

"I thank Governor Patrick for the confidence he has shown in me and look forward to serving the people of Middlesex County in this important capacity," Koutoujian said. "I will bring the full weight of lessons learned prosecuting criminals as a Middlesex County Assistant District Attorney, fighting for victims' rights and public safety in the Legislature and actively engaging with the community to bear in my new role." 

Voters re-elected Koutoujian to the Massachusetts House of Representatives for an eighth term in November. His district covers parts of Newton and Watertown, and all of Waltham. 

Koutoujian earned his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bridgewater State College, received law degree from the New England School of Law. He also has a masters degree in public administration from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. 

In the Legislature, he  serves as the House Chairman of the Joint Committee on Financial Services. In the past, he has served on health care and public health committees. 

Koutoujian is also a vocal advocate for the Armenian-American community. He was the lead sponsor of the Armenian Genocide Commemoration. He spearheaded the effort to create the Armenian Heritage Park, which will be built in the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway.

Outside of his political duties, Koutoujian works as an attorney and an adjunct professor of American government and political science at Bentley University.

He lives in the city with his wife Elizabeth Creda Koutoujian and their three children.