Matthew M. Graves, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, is set to leave his post in mid-January after more than three years of service. Graves' resignation will become effective on Jan. 16, 2025, as was announced earlier this week. "Serving as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia has been the honor of a lifetime,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “I am deeply thankful to Congresswoman Holmes Norton for recommending me; to President Biden for nominating me; and to Attorney General Garland for placing his trust in me," Graves said in a statement obtained by ABC7 News.
Graves assumed office on Nov. 5, 2021, after receiving confirmation from the Senate on Oct. 28, 2021. During his tenure, he has faced, and navigated through numerous challenges. In expressing his gratitude, Graves did not forget to honor those who supported his journey, including Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, President Biden, and Attorney General Merrick Garland, as reported by The Washington Informer.
Following Graves' departure, Bridget M. Fitzpatrick, who has been serving as Principal Assistant United States Attorney, will step in as the acting U.S. Attorney. Bringing over 15 years of federal law enforcement experience to the role, Fitzpatrick has spent the last three years in her current position, closely working with Graves. This appointment was confirmed by sources within the U.S. Attorney's office shared with FOX 5 DC.
While reasons for the resignation were not detailed, Graves' impact on the District's legal landscape will likely be felt long after his departure. His role as U.S. Attorney has placed him at the helm of significant cases and decisions that have shaped the course of justice within the nation's capital, according to, his own reflections and acknowledgments of congressional and executive trust.
