Damian Williams' tenure as the first Black U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York draws to a close amid several groundbreaking prosecutions.
According to NBC News, Williams announced his departure effective December 13 at 11:59 p.m., following successful prosecutions of notable figures, including Senator Robert Menendez and cryptocurrency mogul Sam Bankman-Fried.
During his time in office, Williams has overseen numerous high-profile cases that have captured national attention. His resignation comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to nominate Jay Clayton as his successor, marking a significant transition in one of the nation's most prestigious prosecutor's offices.
The Southern District of New York, previously led by notable figures like Rudy Giuliani, has maintained its reputation for handling complex criminal cases under Williams' leadership.
His office secured convictions in several landmark cases, including the prosecution of Ghislaine Maxwell on sex trafficking charges and FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried for fraud.
Williams' departure comes while several significant cases remain active, including investigations into New York City Mayor Eric Adams and rap mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. Both defendants have entered not-guilty pleas to their respective charges, which include bribery for Adams and sex trafficking for Combs.
The office has also been handling sensitive international cases, including charges against an Iranian national accused of plotting to assassinate then-candidate Trump earlier this year. These cases underscore the diverse and complex nature of the office's workload.
Williams reflected on his departure through an official statement that captured both pride and nostalgia.
It is bitter in the sense that I am leaving my dream job, leading an institution I love that is filled with the finest public servants in the world. It is sweet in that I am confident I am leaving at a time when the Office is functioning at an incredibly high level — upholding and exceeding its already high standard of excellence, integrity, and independence.
The transition plan includes the elevation of Deputy U.S. Attorney Edward Y. Kim to acting U.S. Attorney following Williams' departure. This change comes as Trump has announced his intention to nominate former SEC chairman Jay Clayton to lead the office.
The nomination of Clayton has historical context, as Trump previously attempted to appoint him to this position in 2020. That effort was unsuccessful due to opposition from New York Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, as well as controversy surrounding the removal of then-U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Berman.
The Southern District's leadership transitions have been marked by notable tensions in recent years. Trump's previous interactions with the office included the firing of former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara and the controversial removal of Geoffrey Berman, who was succeeded by his deputy Audrey Strauss.
Trump has expressed confidence in his choice of Clayton, describing him as a respected leader in both business and public service. The former president's statement emphasized Clayton's potential role in his political agenda.
Damian Williams, the groundbreaking U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, will conclude his service on December 13, marking the end of a tenure defined by successful prosecutions of high-profile figures and his historic position as the first Black person to hold the office. His resignation comes as President-elect Trump prepares to nominate Jay Clayton as his replacement. Deputy U.S. Attorney Edward Y. Kim will serve as acting U.S. Attorney until a permanent replacement is confirmed.
