Andrew S. Boutros, an experienced former federal prosecutor and private law practitioner, was sworn in today as the United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. The U.S. District Chief Judge Virginia M. Kendall administered the Oath of Office following his appointment by Attorney General Pamela Bondi.
"I am humbled and honored to lead the U.S. Attorney's Office in Chicago," Boutros said in a public statement. He expressed gratitude towards President Donald J. Trump and the Attorney General, as well as others involved in his selection, for their trust and confidence. Boutros highlighted his commitment to working with both old and new colleagues to address the significant issues facing the district, as well as to partner with law enforcement in pursuit of justice for the citizens of Northern Illinois.
The announcement also stated that Morris Pasqual, the acting United States Attorney for the past two years, has been appointed to serve as First Assistant United States Attorney under Boutros. This is not Pasqual’s first time in a leadership role, having previously held it before serving as Acting U.S. Attorney.
In his previous tenure as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Boutros investigated and prosecuted numerous high-profile cases, resulting in convictions that included one of the "Top Ten Most Wanted" mortgage fraud defendants and the world’s largest online drug trafficker on the dark web, according to an announcement. His performance earned him multiple awards and commendations, including the National Prosecutor of the Year from the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association.
Prior to this appointment, Boutros had a rich career in private law practice while simultaneously contributing to criminal law education as a long-standing faculty member at the University of Chicago Law School. He has written two books, authored nearly 160 articles and book chapters, and presented at 90 speaking engagements on topics related to criminal law according to the official release. His academic contributions further demonstrate his dedication to the field of law, encapsulating a career that is as varied as it is distinguished.
