GRAND ISLAND, Neb. — A Grand Island native is taking over as sheriff of his home county.

A judge swore in Josh Berlie as the new sheriff on Monday. He replaces retiring Sheriff Rick Conrad, who had served in the role since 2018. On Conrad’s recommendation, the Hall County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to appoint Berlie to the position.

“He has an excellent background in criminal justice, and he knows our area. He knows the needs of our area,” Commissioner Karen Bredthauer said in a statement. “And Josh has a proven integrity, community service, and will be a huge asset for leadership, commitment, and upholding fair laws and protecting the rights of our citizens.”

Berlie will serve the rest of Conrad’s term, which runs through 2026. He says he intends to run for election next year.

“Being appointed sheriff is a responsibility I take seriously. It’s about being trusted to serve the people, uphold the law, and lead with fairness and integrity,” Berlie said. “My focus is on keeping the department moving in the right direction. There are a lot of good people at the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, and I’m committed to building on the momentum already in place.”

Berlie brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience to the role. He served with the Grand Island Police Department for 18 years before joining the Hall County Sheriff’s Office over four years ago.