Governor Phil Scott Announces Departure of Corrections Commissioner Nick Deml, Appoints Jon Murad as Interim Corrections Commissioner

Montpelier, VT - Governor Phil Scott on July 28 announced Commissioner Nick Deml will be leaving his role leading the Department of Corrections on August 15 and has named Jon Murad to serve as interim commissioner of the Department of Corrections (DOC).

Deml was appointed in 2021 and worked to build public trust with the Department, prioritizing accountability and transparency. During his tenure, technology and operational practices in Vermont’s correctional facilities were modernized. 

Governor Scott said Deml also focused on improved hiring, retention and morale of the team of corrections employees who make it possible for a complex department to be safe, healthy and well run for the people of Vermont.

“Nick has been a valued and strong leader as commissioner of the Department of Corrections,” said Governor Phil Scott. “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,” said Commissioner Deml. “They fill critical—and often unseen—roles in Vermont’s communities,” said Deml. “I have full confidence in Jon Murad and the incredible team at DOC to continue this important work, and I am grateful for Governor Scott’s strong support as we worked to care for the public servants working every day in our corrections system and better address the needs of those in our custody and make our communities safer.”

Following Deml’s departure, Jon Murad will serve as interim commissioner. Born and raised in Underhill, Vermont, Murad served in a variety of police roles in the New York City Police Department, retiring as an assistant commissioner, and most recently served as the chief of police in Burlington.

“Jon is a proven leader with a strong background in both managing and improving organizations,” said Governor Phil 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.”

“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,” said Murad. “I’m grateful to Governor Scott and Secretary Samuelson for this opportunity. I’m also eager to keep the many innovations and successes that Commissioner Deml has achieved moving forward. 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 is effective August 15, 2025.