Trina A. Higgins, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Utah
Trina A. Higgins, the first woman presidentially appointed as the United States Attorney for the District of Utah, has concluded her service. Nominated by President Joseph R. Biden Jr., Higgins served as the 38th U.S. Attorney in Utah, with her last day on February 16, 2025.
During her tenure, Higgins prioritized cases impacting Utah citizens most significantly. Her office increased financial crime prosecutions and focused on complex narcotics and firearm cases involving high-level defendants in criminal organizations. The office also prosecuted significant violent crimes, including murders and human trafficking.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office tried 35 jury trials under Higgins' leadership, including three homicides in Tribal communities. Notably, she was the trial attorney in a case where a man was convicted of murdering a Navajo woman in front of her children.
Higgins participated in several subcommittees for Attorney General Merrick B. Garland's Advisory Committee, focusing on environmental justice, terrorism and national security, and Native American issues.
Law enforcement leaders praised Higgins' contributions:
"Strong partnerships between law enforcement and prosecutors are essential to upholding the rule of law," said Mehtab Syed from the Salt Lake City FBI office.
ATF Special Agent Brent Beavers commended her "extensive experience as a career prosecutor."
U.S. Marshal Justin Martinez called her "a consummate professional" who kept communication open with agencies.
DEA's Jonathan Pullen appreciated her dedication to their efforts in Utah.
HSI Assistant Special Agent Brandon Crane highlighted their collaboration's impact on public safety.
Glen Henderson from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service noted her commitment to holding accountable those exploiting postal services for illicit activities.
Salt Lake County Sheriff Rosie Rivera acknowledged her focus on complex cases to improve community safety.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown remarked on her dedication to justice and service to the community: "Her career as a dedicated prosecutor made our city safer."
With 30 years of public service experience, Higgins previously served as an Assistant United States Attorney and Salt Lake County Deputy District Attorney before becoming U.S. Attorney. She also worked internationally as a Mediterranean Legal Advisor at U.S embassies in Malta and Cyprus. A native of Utah, she holds degrees from Weber State University and S.J Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah.
