The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, has officially appointed Amanda Houle as Chief of the Office’s Criminal Division, marking her return to public service. The announcement was made earlier today, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office. Houle previously served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, offering her expertise before moving to the private sector.
Houle's career includes a recent position as a partner at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. She also served as a law clerk to Judges Denny Chin and Cathy Seibel, and later held roles within the Southern District of New York, including Chief of the Narcotics Unit and Chief of the National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Jay Clayton expressed his anticipation, saying, "I’m thrilled to announce Amanda as Chief of the Criminal Division, and the Office is thrilled to have her return." He also highlighted her previous significant case work, including against terrorists and cartel leaders, in a statement obtained by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Amanda Houle developed her legal expertise at Fordham University, earning her J.D. after completing her B.A. at Barnard College. Her appointment is expected to bring strong leadership and a strategic approach to addressing complex criminal cases in New York, particularly those involving national security matters.
According to Clayton's statement, Houle's mix of government service and private practice has established her reputation as a "dynamic and strategic advocate, a consummate professional, and a steady hand." He is confident that her talents are only matched by her passion for justice and that she will "make an outstanding leader of the Criminal Division," according to the press release. Given the complex criminal challenges facing the Southern District of New York, Houle's expertise and commitment are expected to play a key role in supporting public safety and collaborating with law enforcement partners.
