In an announcement that marks the end of an era for the legal landscape of Utah, Trina A. Higgins has stepped down from her role as the United States Attorney for the District of Utah. Appointed by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. on January 31, 2022, Higgins has been a pivotal figure in the state's fight against crime, earning accolades for her focused approach on cases that caused significant harm to Utah citizens, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Higgins left her office yesterday, having served as the first woman in this presidentially appointed position and the 38th to hold the title in Utah's history.
During Higgins' leadership, the U.S. Attorney’s Office saw an increase in the prosecution of financial crimes and tackled complex cases involving narcotics, firearms, and violent crimes ranging from murders to sexual assaults and human trafficking. As part of her dedicated focus, United States Attorney Higgins personally served as the trial attorney in a particularly brutal homicide case in Tribal communities. The case, where a Navajo woman was murdered before her children, resulted in a life sentence for the perpetrator. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, her office tried 35 jury trials, including three homicides in Tribal communities, underlining her commitment to seeking justice for the most vulnerable.
Furthermore, Higgins played a significant role in several Attorney General's Advisory Committee subcommittees under Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. Her involvement included the Environmental Justice Subcommittee, the Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee, and the Native American Issues Subcommittee, reinforcing her varied expertise in legal matters. Reports suggest that she maintained strong connections with law enforcement agencies at multiple levels to further justice throughout her tenure.
Leaders from various law enforcement agencies expressed their appreciation for Higgins' collaboration and leadership. Brent Beavers, ATF Special Agent in Charge, called Higgins an "engaged and dedicated law enforcement partner," recognizing her extensive experience and dedication to justice. “She will be greatly missed by the U.S. Marshals Service and every federal, state, and local agency she works with,” U.S. Marshal Justin Martinez of the District of Utah stated, with her having been a consummate professional and effective leader. These sentiments were echoed by Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown, who praised her "exceptional" dedication to justice and community service, as obtained by the U.S. Department of Justice.
Higgins' career spans over three decades, having occupied roles as an Assistant United States Attorney and a Salt Lake County Deputy District Attorney before her historic appointment. She was also the Mediterranean Legal Advisor at the United States embassies in Malta and Cyprus. A champion for the safety of Utahns, Higgins leaves behind a legacy of hard-fought legal battles and a strengthened judicial system, aiming to ensure the voices of victims resonate within the courtrooms of Utah.
