U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan has announced his resignation, effective January 19, 2025, as the chief law enforcement officer for the Northern District of Georgia. Nominated by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Buchanan took office on May 2, 2022.
During his tenure, Buchanan led an office of around 250 personnel in enforcing federal civil and criminal laws and representing U.S. interests in court. He handled cases involving violent crimes, drug trafficking, cybercrimes, healthcare fraud, public corruption, hate crimes, and civil rights violations.
Buchanan also played a role in national legal policy as a member of Attorney General Merrick Garland’s Advisory Committee (AGAC). He was Vice-Chair of the AGAC’s Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee and part of other groups within the Department of Justice.
In a message to his office members, Buchanan expressed gratitude: “Earlier today, I tendered my resignation... It is nearly impossible for me to reduce to writing my admiration and gratitude for you.”
Under Buchanan's leadership, notable achievements were made in various areas:
- A sex trafficking group was prosecuted with sentences ranging from seven to thirty years.
- Jalal Hajavi was convicted for illegal transactions related to Iran.
- Kenny Wells received a ten-year sentence after discharging a firearm at Atlanta's airport.
- Mezemr Abebe Belayneh was sentenced for fraudulently obtaining U.S. citizenship linked to past violence in Ethiopia.
The district also saw significant convictions in fraud cases like Operation Five Fingers and secured major settlements in civil cases such as against UBS AG.
In narcotics convictions: four individuals were sentenced for drug money laundering involving $1.4 million across major U.S cities.
Public integrity work included the conviction of former Clayton County Sheriff Victor Hill and several Atlanta city officials involved in corruption.
Buchanan fostered relationships with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders throughout his term. Initiatives included efforts against opioid use in Bartow County and training programs with local schools' officers under Project Safe Neighborhoods.
He concluded his statement thanking key figures: “I thank President Biden for nominating me... It has been an honor...”
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard S. Moultrie Jr., will serve as Acting U.S Attorney following Buchanan's departure until a successor is appointed.
For more information contact the Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016; visit http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga