by VDC Staff

Governor Phil Scott today announced that Department of Corrections Commissioner Nick Deml will step down from his role on August 15, with former Burlington Police Chief Jon Murad named to serve as interim commissioner.

Deml, who was appointed in 2021, has spent the last four years working to modernize Vermont’s corrections system and restore public trust. His tenure emphasized transparency, accountability, and operational improvements across the state’s correctional facilities. Under his leadership, hiring practices and staff morale saw marked improvements, while technology upgrades helped bring correctional practices into the modern era.

“Nick has been a valued and strong leader as commissioner of the Department of Corrections,” Governor Scott said in a statement. “He’s helped to quickly identify areas of our system that need improvement and implemented policies to improve efficiencies in facilities. I’m appreciative of his dedication to the Department and wish him well.”

“Serving alongside our correctional staff has been the honor of a lifetime,” Deml said. “They fill critical—and often unseen—roles in Vermont’s communities. I have full confidence in Jon Murad and the incredible team at DOC to continue this important work.”

Murad, who was born and raised in Underhill, Vermont, brings decades of public safety experience to his new role. A former assistant commissioner with the New York City Police Department, Murad most recently served as chief of police in Burlington, where he led efforts in police reform and community safety.

“Jon is a proven leader with a strong background in both managing and improving organizations,” said Governor Scott. “As interim commissioner, I believe he will bring a valuable perspective to identify areas of improvement and continue to build on the foundation provided by Commissioner Deml.”

Murad said he is eager to begin his work at DOC, praising the progress made under Deml and the mission of the department.

“After more than two decades in municipal public service, I’m excited to move to the larger stage of serving the great state of Vermont,” Murad said. “The compassionate custody and care of people entrusted to the Department of Corrections matters to Vermonters, and I’m humbled to join a dedicated team that accomplishes that every day.”

Murad’s appointment takes effect August 15.