PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Berkshire County’s new District Attorney Timothy Shugrue took the oath of office Wednesday.

Shugrue said he's thankful he's earned the position and is eager to get to work. He thanked a courtroom full of supporters on Wednesday, giving special recognition to his wife and family as he celebrated what he said is one of the greatest honors of his life - second to when he became a lawyer 36 years ago.

Three former district attorneys were among those in attendance, including Andrea Harrington who Shugrue defeated during the Democratic primary in September.

In his first public address, Shugrue spoke about reform for the Berkshires, including strengthening the prosecution of illegal firearm possession, connecting nonviolent offenders with community support and the relationship his office will work to have with law enforcement.

“Effective prosecution and criminal justice reform do not act as a choice, it’s not one or the other," Shugrue said. "When effective prosecution and criminal justice reform go hand in hand, that’s when we see positive change. In the Shugrue administration, we will partner with law enforcement. The relationship with the DA’s office and law enforcement must work in constant with one another to protect the citizens of Berkshire County.

"In the Shugrue administration, we will also value criminal justice reform. I have defined myself as fair and responsible in my approach to reform. And someone who advocates for and actually achieves effectively, more importantly, responsible progress.”

Shugrue said he’s committed to improving the quality of life in the Berkshires and ensuring the safety of its residents. He said he plans to have his office be active within the community as well, starting with a establishing a department of community engagement on day one.