In a surprising move, Connecticut’s top federal prosecutor, Vanessa Roberts Avery, announced that she will step down just hours before Donald Trump takes office.
Avery, who has served as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut since 2022, shared that her resignation will take effect on January 17, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. — just days before Trump’s inauguration on January 20.
Appointed by President Biden, Avery made history as the first Black woman to serve in this high-profile role. She worked tirelessly in various legal capacities, including as an assistant U.S. attorney from 2014 to 2019 and in senior roles at the Connecticut Attorney General’s office from 2019 to 2022.
In a heartfelt statement, Avery expressed gratitude for the opportunity: “It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as United States Attorney, and I am profoundly appreciative of President Biden for trusting me to serve our nation and the people of Connecticut in this position.”
Her decision to resign comes after several Biden-appointed U.S. attorneys in the tri-state area, including those in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey, announced their departures in late 2024, following Trump’s election win.
Avery’s resignation letter highlights her dedication to community outreach in Connecticut as part of her effort to reduce crime. Though she did not share specific plans for her future, she left the office in capable hands, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Marc Silverman set to take over.
“The Office’s superb supervisory team, led by Marc, is known for its high professional and ethical standards,” Avery said, reassuring the public that the administration of justice would continue without interruption.
With her tenure drawing to a close, Avery leaves behind a legacy of service, commitment, and leadership that has made a lasting impact on Connecticut’s legal community.
