The name is very familiar, Rich Maricelli.

The retired Captain of Detectives for the Missoula County Sheriff's Office has returned to duty as the newly appointed Undersheriff, to replace the newly retired Jason Johnson.

Maricelli retired from the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office in 2013 to pursue a career at Neptune Aviation as their safety manager.

He was nominated and selected to attend the National FBI Academy, which he completed in 2008. In 2011, at a ceremony in Washington D.C Marcelli was honored by former President Obama as one of the nation’s “Top Cops.”

Maricelli said he has stayed in close contact with Sheriff McDermott during his retirement, and coming back into the department as Undersheriff seemed like the right opportunity to share his experience and knowledge with the new generation of deputies.

"I think that was the plan," Maricelli said. "I've been out of the game for a while, but hopefully, some of those things will be useful. You know, I feel a little like an old dinosaur. As I look around I see a lot of new young faces, it's kind of like a recent high school graduating class.They're a hard working group and as I've followed the progress of the sheriff's office over the years, I find that I'm really excited about the future of the department with the new deputies, both downtown and out at the detention facility and the new K-9 program, to see that come into fruition, and I just feel very honored to be back. I hope I can bring some experience and some calming for the younger staff."

Sheriff T.J. McDermott said, “Rich Maricelli’s work ethic, professionalism and integrity always stood out during his time at the Sheriff’s Office. After seeking input from various members of the department, I am confident Rich Maricelli will be well-supported by our team. We know his years of experience will play an important role in the success of our office.”

 

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