Ryan K. Buchanan U.S. Attorney | US Attorney's office Northern District of Georgia
U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan has announced his resignation as the chief law enforcement officer for the Northern District of Georgia, effective January 19, 2025. Buchanan was nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., confirmed by the U.S. Senate, and sworn in on May 2, 2022.
During his tenure, Buchanan led an office of approximately 250 personnel to enforce federal laws and represent U.S. interests in federal court. He oversaw prosecutions involving various crimes such as violent crimes, drug trafficking, cybercrimes, public corruption, hate crimes, and civil rights violations.
Buchanan also contributed to national legal policy as a member of Attorney General Merrick Garland’s Advisory Committee and held roles including Vice-Chair of the AGAC’s Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee.
In his message to colleagues, Buchanan expressed gratitude: “It is nearly impossible for me to reduce to writing my admiration and gratitude for you... The talent, excellence, and integrity of this office are unparalleled.”
Under Buchanan's leadership, significant achievements were made in criminal and civil cases. A dedicated Public Integrity & Civil Rights Section was created to expand civil rights work.
Notable cases included prosecuting a minor sex trafficking group with sentences ranging from seven to 30 years in prison; convicting Jalal Hajavi for unlawfully exporting goods to Iran; sentencing Kenny Wells for discharging a firearm at Atlanta airport; and convicting Mezemr Abebe Belayneh for fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship linked to Ethiopia's "Red Terror."
Fraud convictions under Operation Five Fingers resulted in 40 defendants being convicted for schemes causing over $30 million in losses. In civil cases, Charles Adams M.D.'s practice was found guilty of False Claims Act violations leading to liabilities exceeding $27 million.
Narcotics convictions involved laundering drug money between major U.S. cities and Colombia with sentences up to six years.
Public integrity efforts saw former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill sentenced for civil rights violations and multiple Atlanta officials prosecuted for corruption.
Buchanan's outreach initiatives included partnering with health departments on opioid awareness programs and collaborating with the GRACE Commission against human trafficking.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr. will serve as Acting U.S. Attorney until a successor is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
For further information contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016.
