Christopher R. Kavanaugh has announced his resignation as the United States Attorney for the Western District of Virginia, effective December 20, 2024. He steps down after more than three years in office.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco praised Kavanaugh's contributions, stating, “Four years ago, Chris Kavanaugh was one of the first people I brought in to join the Office of the Deputy Attorney General because of his experience within the Department and his leadership on national security issues.”
Kavanaugh took office on October 7, 2021, following unanimous confirmation by the U.S. Senate. He was later appointed to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee and chaired its National Security Subcommittee.
Steven M. Dettelbach, Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), commented on Kavanaugh's impact: “Chris Kavanaugh has been an incredible partner for ATF and a national leader in the fight against violent crime.”
During his tenure, Kavanaugh expanded the U.S. Attorney’s Office's footprint and increased staffing levels significantly. He led several high-profile cases including United States v. McKinsey & Company and United States v. Envigo.
In a statement today, Kavanaugh said: “Every day, the public servants of United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia work to make the District – and our Nation – a safer and better place for us all.”
Under his leadership, significant cases were prosecuted such as those involving Purdue Pharma consultant McKinsey & Company and biotechnology company Envigo. The office also pursued justice in cases like The Killing of Big Stone Gap Police Officer Michael Chandler and The Bribery Trial of Sheriff Scott Jenkins.
Stanley M. Meador from FBI Richmond expressed gratitude for Kavanaugh's service: “His unwavering commitment to justice and his exceptional partnership have been instrumental in advancing our shared mission of keeping Virginia safe.”
Jarod Forget from DEA Washington Division noted: “U.S. Attorney Kavanaugh’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in our initiatives to safeguard the health and safety of the citizens of Western Virginia.”
Before serving as U.S. Attorney, Kavanaugh spent 14 years as an Assistant U.S. Attorney focusing on national security among other areas.