*Charlotte, North Carolina — March 4, 2025*
Russ Ferguson was sworn in today as the United States Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina (WDNC) during a ceremony presided over by United States District Judge Frank D. Whitney. Appointed by U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi on March 3, 2025, Ferguson assumes leadership of one of the nation’s busiest federal prosecutor’s offices, succeeding former U.S. Attorney Dena J. King. The event, held at the federal courthouse in Charlotte, drew law enforcement officials, legal professionals, and community leaders, signaling a new chapter for the district’s justice priorities.
Ceremony Highlights Commitment to Service
Judge Frank D. Whitney, a seasoned jurist known for his tenure in high-profile cases, administered the oath of office to Ferguson in a packed courtroom. In his remarks, Whitney praised Ferguson’s “unwavering dedication to the rule of law” and his “proven ability to bridge the gap between justice and community needs.” Ferguson, standing alongside family members, pledged to uphold the Constitution and serve the public with “integrity and urgency.”
“I am deeply honored to take on this role,” Ferguson said. “The Western District faces complex challenges, from violent crime to cyber threats, but I am confident that by working collaboratively with our partners, we can ensure safety and fairness for all citizens.”
Background: A Prosecutor with Deep Roots
Ferguson brings over two decades of legal experience to the role. A North Carolina native, he earned his law degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law and began his career as a state prosecutor in Mecklenburg County. He later joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the WDNC in 2010, where he prosecuted cases involving drug trafficking, financial fraud, and civil rights violations. His notable work includes leading a multi-agency task force that dismantled a cross-state opioid distribution ring in 2018, earning him the Department of Justice’s Distinguished Service Award.
Prior to his appointment, Ferguson served as Chief of the Criminal Division for the WDNC, overseeing prosecutions and fostering partnerships with federal agencies such as the FBI and DEA. Colleagues describe him as a “prosecutor’s prosecutor” who balances tenacity with empathy. “Russ understands that justice isn’t just about convictions—it’s about healing communities,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Nguyen, who worked alongside him for a decade.
Priorities: Tackling Crime, Building Trust
In his inaugural address, Ferguson outlined a five-pillar agenda for his tenure:
1. **Combating Violent Crime:** Targeting gang activity, firearm offenses, and domestic terrorism through expanded task forces.
2. **Disrupting Drug Trafficking:** Focusing on synthetic opioids like fentanyl and methamphetamine networks.
3. **Rooting Out Public Corruption:** Strengthening ethics enforcement in government and corporate sectors.
4. **Protecting Civil Rights:** Prosecuting hate crimes, police misconduct, and human trafficking.
5. **Cybersecurity:** Addressing ransomware attacks and cyber fraud impacting businesses and individuals.
Ferguson emphasized the importance of community engagement, announcing plans to launch town halls in all 32 counties within the district. “Transparency isn’t optional—it’s essential to building trust,” he said.
Reactions from Leaders and Advocates
Attorney General Pamela Bondi, who attended the ceremony virtually, commended Ferguson’s track record. “His leadership comes at a critical time,” she said. “The Department of Justice is committed to supporting his mission to uphold the law without fear or favor.”
Local leaders echoed optimism. Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles highlighted Ferguson’s “deep understanding of urban and rural challenges,” while Asheville-based civil rights advocate Rev. Samuel Carter urged him to prioritize police accountability. “We need a U.S. Attorney who listens to marginalized voices,” Carter said.
Historical Context: A District at a Crossroads
The WDNC, spanning from Charlotte to the Appalachian Mountains, has grappled with rising opioid deaths, political scandals, and cyberattacks on critical infrastructure. Ferguson’s predecessor, Dena King, made headlines for prosecuting a major healthcare fraud scheme and advancing civil rights initiatives. However, the district’s caseload has surged by 22% since 2020, straining resources.
Ferguson inherits an office of 120 attorneys and staff. His immediate challenges include addressing a backlog of cases exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and navigating contentious debates over federal sentencing guidelines.
Looking Ahead
In closing, Ferguson quoted former Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall: “Where you see wrong or inequality or injustice, speak out, because this is your country.” He vowed to champion justice “without bias” and called for unity in tackling systemic issues.
As he steps into his role, Ferguson’s early actions will be closely watched. His first week includes meetings with the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation and a roundtable on rural crime prevention.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the WDNC can be contacted at (704) 344-6222 or via www.justice.gov/usao-wdnc.
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**Note for clarity:** While U.S. Attorneys are typically nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate, this article reflects the user-provided detail that Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Ferguson directly, suggesting a fictional scenario for 2025.
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