The U.S. Department of Justice has announced that Justin R. Simmons, a seasoned prosecutor, has taken the helm as the Interim United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, ascending to a role of substantial influence in a region that often finds itself at the epicenter of American legal battles over immigration and drug trafficking. Simmons' appointment, effective May 30, was revealed by the Department of Justice, and acknowledges his diverse legal background.
According to the announcement from the DOJ, Simmons' legal chops are not to be underestimated; he has grappled with cases spanning the gamut from human trafficking to white-collar crime, and he's been active as the SAR Coordinator for the district and Elder Justice Coordinator, where he endeavored to protect vulnerable seniors from fraud, sharing his expertise by giving various presentations to law enforcement on financial investigations linked to human trafficking and serving as a staunch advocate for the rule of law and for the welfare of the elderly and the district's crew of Assistant United States Attorneys and support staff. It is his belief, “I am humbled and honored to serve in this role,” that underscores his commitment to the position.
Simmons previously worked as a lawyer for the law firm of Scheef & Stone, cutting his legal teeth on the nuances of commercial litigation before his tenure as Assistant District Attorney in Collin County. His educational credentials, starting with a degree in business administration from Samford University to his Juris Doctorate from Texas A&M, suggest a robust foundation for his latest appointment.
"The Western District of Texas has for many years been on the front lines of the fight against the narco-terrorists that have enriched themselves to the detriment of the United States," Simmons elucidated, demonstrating his understanding of the challenges that lie ahead. "In keeping with the President’s priorities, we will continue to push back against their efforts by aggressively enforcing the laws of the United States. We will also continue to root out and bring to light those who would enrich themselves by perpetrating fraud on the government or individual citizens," Simmons told the DOJ.
