John J. Durham has assumed the role of Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, as authorized by Acting United States Attorney General James R. McHenry III. Durham was sworn in on January 21, 2025, by United States District Judge Joanna Seybert. He will hold this position for up to 120 days or until a Presidential nominee is confirmed by the Senate.
Durham expressed his commitment to his new role: “As someone who has served this Office for nearly 20 years, it is truly an honor to be appointed as Interim United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York,” he stated. “Our mission remains steadfast and vital: to combat the greatest threats to this district – from violent crime, terrorism and drug trafficking to cybercrime, corruption, white-collar fraud and civil litigation – uphold the rule of law and pursue justice.”
Since joining the Office in October 2005, Durham has held several leadership roles within both the Office and the Department of Justice. His positions have included Deputy Chief for the Long Island Criminal Section and Chair of the MS-13 Subcommittee of the Attorney General’s Transnational Organized Crime Task Force.
In August 2019, he was appointed Director of Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV), leading efforts against La Mara Salvatrucha (MS-13). Under his leadership, significant indictments were secured against MS-13 leaders internationally.
Durham's career includes investigating a wide range of federal offenses such as racketeering and terrorism. Notably, he directed efforts that led to numerous arrests and convictions related to over 70 murders committed by MS-13 in his district since January 2008.
Beyond tackling organized crime like MS-13, Durham has prosecuted individuals attempting to join al-Qaeda in Yemen and members of other criminal organizations including Bloods and Crips gangs. He also handled public corruption cases involving high-profile officials from Suffolk County Police Department among others.
His work has earned him various accolades including awards like Charles E. Rose Award; Henry L. Stimson Medal; EOUSA Director’s Award for Superior Performance; National Association of Former United States Attorneys Exceptional Service Award; along with several Federal Law Enforcement Foundation Awards.
Durham graduated from College of Holy Cross in 1998 followed by University Of Connecticut School Of Law In 2001 before clerking under U.S District Judge Stephen C Robinson Southern District New York
