Federal prosecutor Thomas Walker resigns
By John Joyce
Published in News on December 23, 2015 1:46 PM
U.S. Attorney Thomas G. Walker, the state's top prosecutor for the 44 counties that comprise the Eastern District of North Carolina, resigned Tuesday, according to U.S. Department of Justice press release.
His resignation is effective Jan. 7, 2016.
Walker, nominated for his position by President Obama, and who was sworn into office in July, 2011 after being confirmed by the U.S. Senate, said he is returning to private practice.
"Words cannot express the appreciation that I have for the opportunity to serve the Eastern District of North Carolina," Walker said in a written statement issued Tuesday.
"I will forever be grateful to President Barack Obama, and to Sen. Richard Burr and former Sen. Kay Hagan for their nomination and approval."
Walker oversaw all federal criminal and civil matters in his district during his four and a half years in office.
U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch said Walker embodied the DOJ's highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
"Throughout his tenure as attorney for the Eastern District Thomas Walker has proved himself to be a consummate public servant and an exemplary law enforcement officer," she said.
Mrs. Lynch said Walker's office is well positioned for years of continued success.
"And because of his tireless efforts in a range of areas -- from national security to environmental protection, and from veteran's rights to the fight against human trafficking -- the communities in his district are stronger, safer and more just," she said.
Going forward, the attorney general will appoint an interim U.S. attorney to fill the slot vacated by Walker, public information officer Don Connelly said.
"The AG will appoint an interim until the process goes through for a next presidential nomination," he said.
The interim U.S. attorney will most likely be appointed before Walker's resignation becomes effective Jan. 7, but the time frame for the presidential nomination is not as certain.
"It is really hard to say, it will be up t this administration to decide if it wants to make the next appointment or let the interim serve out the term and wait for the next person in office to make the appointment," Connelly said.