Josh Berlie Sworn in as Hall County Sheriff

Grand Island, Neb. — December 24, 2025 — Josh Berlie was sworn in as Hall County Sheriff on Tuesday, December 23, during a ceremony held at the Hall County Courthouse. Judge Lee administered the oath of office as Berlie was surrounded by his family, friends, and colleagues.
Berlie was voted into the position by the Hall County Board of Commissioners after Sheriff Rick Conrad announced his retirement. Berlie will serve the remainder of Conrad’s term through 2026 and intends to run for the next full election term.

Hall County Board of Commissioners member Karen Bredthauer said the Board is excited to welcome Berlie, noting his deep roots in Grand Island and extensive experience.

“He has an excellent background in criminal justice, and he knows our area. He knows the needs of our area,” said Bredthauer. “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. His department will be run with the utmost honor.”

Berlie has earned a reputation among colleagues as a man of integrity, a natural leader, and someone deeply devoted to his community. Local law enforcement leaders have also expressed confidence in the continued collaboration between agencies under his leadership.
In his remarks, Berlie emphasized continuity and the importance of the people who serve within the Sheriff’s Office.

“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 in a variety of roles, gaining extensive on-the-ground and leadership experience, before joining the Hall County Sheriff’s Office over four years ago. His career reflects a deep commitment to public service and a strong understanding of both city and county law enforcement operations.

Friends and peers say Berlie’s transition from the Grand Island Police Department to Chief Deputy with the Hall County Sheriff’s Office demonstrated his readiness for leadership and community trust.

“When he left the police department to become the Chief Deputy with the Hall County Sheriff’s Department, I knew it was just a matter of time before he would have the support of the community and his colleagues to continue to the next chapter,” said Brandon Kirkley, Grand Island Police Sergeant. “Today is the next chapter, and he’s going to do very well. I’m very proud and excited to call him my friend.”