Memphis, TN - Kevin G. Ritz, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, is
pleased to announce the appointment of Reagan Taylor Fondren as First Assistant United States
Attorney for the district.
Ms. Fondren, a native Memphian and graduate of Central High School, completed her undergraduate
studies at Spelman College and her law degree at the University of Tennessee College of Law. She
has worked in federal public service with the United States Department of Justice for her entire
career and has served as an Assistant United States Attorney for over 14 years.
“As a federal prosecutor for over 14 years, and a career public servant, Reagan Taylor Fondren
brings a wealth of experience and absolute professionalism to a role that is vital to the success
of our office," said United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz. “I am confident that Ms. Fondren will
lead with skill and integrity in her new role as First Assistant. I look forward to working closely
with her to promote and defend the interests of the United States in our District."
Ms. Fondren began her legal career as a Presidential Management Fellow with the Drug Enforcement
Administration. There she servedin the Office of the Chief Counsel and was responsible for the
investigation and institution of charges against DEA registrants accused of violating federal
regulations. In 2008, she joined the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia,
where she gained significant trial and appellate experience as a violent crime and homicide
prosecutor.
Ms. Fondren has served the Western District of Tennessee since 2014, where she has served as senior
and lead AUSA in the Civil Rights Unit of the Criminal Division. In this role she managed
complex investigations involving multiple law enforcement partners. Four years ago, Ms.
Fondren joined the Civil Division of the United States Attorney’s Office, where she has served as
Senior Litigation Counsel. She has defended the United States in an array of civil cases, such as
employment discrimination, medical malpractice, and prisoner litigation. As head of the Financial
Litigation and Bankruptcy Divisions, she has worked with government agencies to collect debts and
represent the interests of the United States in bankruptcy litigation. Additionally, Ms. Fondren
has served as the Chair of the Diversity Committee and Special Emphasis Program Manager for Black
Affairs.
Ms. Fondren is married to Rickey Fondren II and they have two children. Ms. Fondren is active in
community and legal organizations including the National Bar Association, the National Black
Prosecutors Association, and Girl Scouts Heart of the South.
Source: U.S. Department of Justice, Office of the United States Attorneys
