Nicholas J. Ganjei has been sworn in as the chief federal law enforcement officer for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX). This appointment follows a unanimous vote by the judges of the district court, reaffirming his position as U.S. Attorney.
Ganjei was initially named U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Texas on January 29 by former acting Attorney General James McHenry. Under the Vacancy Reform Act, an interim U.S. Attorney can be appointed for up to 120 days by the Attorney General, after which a district court appoints a successor until a permanent replacement is confirmed.
Expressing gratitude for his reappointment, Ganjei stated, “I am honored by the district court’s vote of confidence in my leadership of this great office.” He emphasized ongoing efforts to address key issues such as border security and crime prevention within SDTX.
The oath of office was administered by Chief Judge Randy Crane before staff and personnel from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Ganjei brings extensive experience to his role, having served previously as acting U.S. Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas. Since joining the Department of Justice in 2008, he has prosecuted cases involving organized crime, immigration violations, narcotics trafficking, human trafficking, fraud, public corruption, and white-collar crimes.
Before his current tenure with SDTX, Ganjei worked as chief counsel to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz and managed legal matters related to criminal justice and other significant areas while serving on the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitution.
As U.S. Attorney for one of America’s busiest districts, Ganjei prioritizes public safety and border security. His leadership has led to enhanced enforcement measures resulting in actions against individuals involved in unlawful activities or possessing serious criminal histories within SDTX.
The Southern District covers 43 counties with over nine million residents across 44,000 square miles. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from divisions including Houston and other cities collaborate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to prosecute federal crimes effectively.
