United States Attorney Gary M. Restaino, who has been serving the District of Arizona, said his goodbyes to the Department of Justice. Restaino, a presidential appointee, was informed of his termination in a direct message from the White House, which is just a part of the job for someone in his position since they can be removed at the president's discretion. The former U.S. Attorney received thanks from the administration for his contributions.
"Getting the opportunity to lead an office in which I have worked for many years has been energizing," Restaino told the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Arizona. His tenure, which began back in November 2021, was marked by significant actions on border security, violent crime prosecutions, and civil rights advancements—efforts attributed to his leadership.
Under Restaino's direction, Arizona became a leading force in securing the nation's borders. Fiscal year 2024 saw the District at the forefront of delivering criminal consequences for illegal entries and reentries into the U.S. The team took a victim-centric approach to prosecute smugglers while also taking down transnational criminal operations that peddled dangerous substances like fentanyl.
Furthermore, Restaino's office undertook significant legal actions in the realm of violent crime. Federal partners in Tucson brought a novel perspective to federal firearms prosecutions through a Public Safety Partnership. Arresting criminals, they managed to secure convictions, including a high-profile second-degree murder case of a Deputy U.S. Marshal's shooter—signaling a commitment to fighting violent crime at all levels.
When it comes to civil rights, Restaino's office was diligent. For instance, securing a hefty 438-month sentence for an individual convicted of church arson and religious freedom interference. His team's legal expertise helped achieve justice for a minor assaulted by a customs officer, with convictions including kidnapping and rights deprivation.
With Restaino's departure, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel C. Hernandez steps in as Acting U.S. Attorney for the district. The Office, represented by around 180 Assistant United States Attorneys and supported by an additional 160 administrative professionals, continues to serve the interests of the United States in Arizona's criminal justice landscape.
