In a significant transition within North Carolina’s federal legal landscape, Dena J. King has resigned from her position as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina, effective February 12, 2025. King, the first person of colour to hold this role in the district, was appointed by President Joseph R. Biden Jr. in 2021. Her departure comes as the new administration under President Donald J. Trump initiates changes in key federal positions.
King’s tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to civil rights, public safety, and community engagement. Upon her appointment, she established the district’s inaugural Civil Rights Team, focusing on enforcing civil rights laws, prosecuting criminal violations, and safeguarding voting rights and accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
This initiative not only emphasized enforcement but also enhanced community outreach to raise awareness and encourage the reporting of potential civil rights infringements.
In addressing healthcare fraud, King revitalized the Western District’s Health Care Fraud Task Force. This multi-agency collaboration aimed to identify and prosecute entities defrauding public and private insurers, thereby protecting the integrity of the healthcare system and conserving taxpayer funds.
The task force’s efforts led to numerous criminal and civil actions, resulting in settlements with various healthcare providers and the recovery of millions in restitution for government-funded programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.
King also prioritized the protection of vulnerable populations. Her office successfully prosecuted numerous child predators, ensuring justice and restitution for victims of sexual exploitation.
Recognizing the importance of proactive measures, she collaborated with local educational institutions, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, Buncombe County Schools, and Asheville City Schools, to engage students on topics like school violence prevention, teen dating violence, leadership, and positive conflict resolution.
Under her leadership, the office intensified efforts to combat violent crime by dismantling drug trafficking networks and disrupting illegal firearms distribution. Initiatives such as “Think Again” aimed to prevent illegal firearm purchases and reduce gun violence, while the “United Against Hate” program sought to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and communities historically targeted by hate crimes.
King’s departure aligns with the customary transition of U.S. Attorneys following a change in presidential administration. Notably, her resignation follows the Trump administration’s issuance of termination notices to several U.S. Attorneys appointed by the previous administration, signalling a shift in the Department of Justice’s leadership nationwide.
In North Carolina, King’s resignation marks the final departure among the state’s three U.S. Attorneys appointed by President Biden as the Trump administration prepares to appoint their successors.
Reflecting on her service, King stated, “It has been a tremendous honor to serve the people of the Western District of North Carolina. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most talented public servants dedicated to serving our communities with integrity, distinction, and excellence.”
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Cameron will assume the role of Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District until a permanent appointment is made.
King’s tenure has left an indelible mark on the Western District of North Carolina, with initiatives that have strengthened civil rights protections, enhanced public safety, and fostered community partnerships. As the district transitions under new leadership, the foundations laid during her service are poised to continue influencing the region’s legal and social landscape.
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